Compositions and methods for inhibiting expression of mylip/idol gene

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) compositions targeting the Mylip/Idol gene, and methods of using such dsRNA compositions to inhibit expression of Mylip/Idol.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is continuation of Ser. No. 13/575,040, filed Oct. 12, 2012, which is a 35 U.S.C. §371 National Phase Entry Application of International Application No. PCT/US2011/22339, filed Jan. 25, 2011, which designates the United States, and which claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. provisional application 61/297,954 filed on Jan. 25, 2010, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by reference.

SEQUENCE LISTING

The instant application contains a Sequence Listing which has been submitted in ASCII format via EFS-Web and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Said ASCII copy, created on Jul. 23, 2012, is named 20120725_SequenceListing-TextFile_051058_054000_US.txt and is 373,982 bytes in size.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to the specific inhibition of the expression of the Mylip/Idol gene.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Myosin Regulatory light chain interacting protein (Mylip) is an ERM-like protein that interacts with myosin regulatory light chain and inhibits neurite outgrowth in neurons. The Mylip protein comprises a FERM homology domain at the N-terminus, and a RING zinc finger ubiquitin ligase domain at the C-terminus. While FERM-containing proteins are known to interact with the cytoplasmic regions of transmembrane proteins, Mylip is presently the only FERM-containing protein known to interact with the myosin regulatory light chain protein. Mylip is expressed ubiquitously in almost all human tissues.

Mylip has been shown to downregulate the LDL receptor by enhancing LDL receptor ubiquitination and leading to degradation of the LDL receptor (LDL-R). Overexpression of the Mylip protein in mice reduces levels of the LDL-R, decreases LDL uptake into cells and increases plasma cholesterol levels. Conversely, inhibition of Mylip expression in mice enhances LDL uptake into cells. Given the actions of Mylip on LDL-R expression, the protein is also referred to as ‘inducible degrador of the LDL-R’ (Idol).

Autosomal dominant hypercholesterolemias (ADHs) are monogenic diseases in which patients exhibit elevated total and LDL cholesterol levels, tendon xanthomas, and premature atherosclerosis (Rader, D. J., (2003) J. Clin. Invest. 111, 1795-1803). The pathogenesis of ADHs and a recessive form, autosomal recessive hypercholesterolemia (ARH) (Cohen, J. C., (2003) Curr. Opin. Lipidol. 14, 121-127), is due to defects in LDL uptake by the liver. ADH may be caused by LDLR mutations, which prevent LDL uptake, or by mutations in the protein on LDL, apolipoprotein B, which binds to the LDLR. ARH is caused by mutations in the ARH protein that are necessary for endocytosis of the LDLR-LDL complex via its interaction with clathrin. As Mylip/Idol plays a role in receptor-mediated LDL uptake it is likely that treatment strategies directed at Mylip/Idol would be beneficial in the above-described disorders.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Described herein are compositions and methods that effect the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC)-mediated cleavage of RNA transcripts of the Mylip/Idol gene, such as in a cell or mammal. Also described are compositions and methods for treating pathological conditions and diseases caused by the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene, such as a lipid disorder or metabolic disorder (e.g., atherosclerosis or diabetes). Also described are compositions and methods described for promoting neurite outgrowth, thus permitting treatment of neurodegenerative disorders or nerve damage such as e.g., spinal cord injury.

As used herein, the term “iRNA” refers to an agent that contains RNA as that term is defined herein, and which mediates the targeted cleavage of an RNA transcript via an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) pathway. In one embodiment, an iRNA as described herein inhibits the expression of Mylip/Idol in a cell or mammal. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the iRNA up-regulates the expression of Mylip/Idol in a cell or mammal.

The iRNAs included in the compositions featured herein encompass a dsRNA having an RNA strand (the antisense strand) having a region that is 30 nucleotides or less, generally 19-24 nucleotides in length, that is substantially complementary to at least part of an mRNA transcript of a Mylip/Idol gene. In one embodiment, the dsRNA comprises a region of at least 15 contiguous nucleotides.

In one embodiment, an iRNA for inhibiting expression of a Mylip/Idol gene includes at least two sequences that are complementary to each other. The iRNA includes a sense strand having a first sequence and an antisense strand having a second sequence. The antisense strand includes a nucleotide sequence that is substantially complementary to at least part of an mRNA encoding Mylip/Idol, and the region of complementarity is 30 nucleotides or less, and at least 15 nucleotides in length. Generally, the iRNA is 19 to 24, e.g., 19 to 21 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments the iRNA is from about 15 to about 25 nucleotides in length, and in other embodiments the iRNA is from about 25 to about 30 nucleotides in length. The iRNA, upon contacting with a cell expressing Mylip/Idol, inhibits the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene by at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35% or at least 40% or more, such as when assayed by a method as described herein. In one embodiment, the Mylip/Idol iRNA is formulated in a stable nucleic acid lipid particle (SNALP).

In one embodiment, an iRNA featured herein includes a first sequence of a dsRNA that is selected from the group consisting of the sense sequences of Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6, and a second sequence that is selected from the group consisting of the corresponding antisense sequences of Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6. The iRNA molecules featured herein can include naturally occurring nucleotides or can include at least one modified nucleotide, including, but not limited to a 2′-O-methyl modified nucleotide, a nucleotide having a 5′-phosphorothioate group, and a terminal nucleotide linked to a cholesteryl derivative. Alternatively, the modified nucleotide may be chosen from the group of: a 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro modified nucleotide, a 2′-deoxy-modified nucleotide, a locked nucleotide, an abasic nucleotide, 2′-amino-modified nucleotide, 2′-alkyl-modified nucleotide, morpholino nucleotide, a phosphoramidate, and a non-natural base comprising nucleotide. Generally, such a modified sequence will be based on a first sequence of said iRNA selected from the group consisting of the sense sequences of Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6, and a second sequence selected from the group consisting of the antisense sequences of Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6.

In another embodiment, a composition containing a dsRNA targeting Mylip/Idol is administered to a subject when Low Density Lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc) levels reach or surpass a predetermined minimal level, such as greater than 130 mg/dL, 150 mg/dL, 200 mg/dL, 300 mg/dL, or 400 mg/dL. In another embodiment, the subject has an LDLc level greater than about 150 mg/dL.

In one embodiment, a single administration of the dsRNA lowers LDLc levels by at least 10%, e.g., by at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, or at least 60%, or more. In another embodiment, the lowered LDLc level is maintained for at least 5, 10, 20, 30, or 40 days or longer.

In one embodiment, the subject is selected, at least in part, on the basis of needing (as opposed to merely selecting a patient on the grounds of who happens to be in need of) LDL lowering, LDL lowering without lowering of HDL, ApoB lowering, or total cholesterol lowering without HDL lowering.

In one embodiment, an iRNA as described herein targets a wildtype Mylip/Idol RNA transcript, and in another embodiment, the iRNA targets a mutant transcript (e.g., a Mylip/Idol RNA carrying an allelic variant). For example, an iRNA of the invention can target a polymorphic variant, such as a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), of Mylip/Idol. In another embodiment, the iRNA targets both a wildtype and a mutant Mylip/Idol transcript. In yet another embodiment, the iRNA targets a transcript variant of Mylip/Idol.

In one embodiment, an iRNA featured in the invention targets a non-coding region of a Mylip/Idol RNA transcript, such as the 5′ or 3′ untranslated region.

In one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a cell containing at least one of the iRNAs featured in the invention. The cell is generally a mammalian cell, such as a human cell.

In another aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a pharmaceutical composition for inhibiting the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in an organism, generally a human subject. The composition typically includes one or more of the iRNAs described herein and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or delivery vehicle. In one embodiment, the composition is used for treating a lipid disorder, such as atherosclerosis. In another embodiment, the composition is used for treating a spinal cord injury or a neurodegenerative disease or disorder, such as palsy, or Parkinson's disease.

In another embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated for administration of a dosage regimen described herein, e.g., not more than once every four weeks, not more than once every three weeks, not more than once every two weeks, or not more than once every week. In another embodiment, the administration of the pharmaceutical composition can be maintained for a month or longer, e.g., one, two, three, or six months, or one year, or five years, or ten years, or longer, including the remaining lifetime of a subject.

In another embodiment, a composition containing an iRNA described herein, e.g., a dsRNA targeting Mylip/Idol, is administered with a non-iRNA therapeutic agent, such as an agent known to treat a lipid disorder, or a symptom of a lipid disorder. For example, an iRNA featured in the invention can be administered with an agent for treatment of atherosclerosis or hypercholesterolemia or other disorders associated with cholesterol metabolism.

In another embodiment, a Mylip/Idol iRNA is administered to a patient, and then the non-iRNA agent is administered to the patient (or vice versa). In another embodiment, a Mylip/Idol iRNA and the non-iRNA therapeutic agent are administered at the same time. In one embodiment, the agent is, for example, an agent that affects cholesterol metabolism, such as an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (e.g., a statin).

In another aspect, provided herein is a method for inhibiting the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in a cell by performing the following steps:

-   -   (a) introducing into the cell a double-stranded ribonucleic acid         (dsRNA), wherein the dsRNA includes at least two sequences that         are complementary to each other. The dsRNA has a sense strand         having a first sequence and an antisense strand having a second         sequence; the antisense strand has a region of complementarity         that is substantially complementary to at least a part of an         mRNA encoding Mylip/Idol, and where the region of         complementarity is 30 nucleotides or less, i.e., 15-30         nucleotides in length, and generally 19-24 nucleotides in         length, and where the dsRNA, upon contact with a cell expressing         Mylip/Idol, inhibits expression of a Mylip/Idol gene by at least         10%, preferably at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40% or         more; and     -   (b) maintaining the cell produced in step (a) for a time         sufficient to obtain degradation of the mRNA transcript of the         Mylip/Idol gene, thereby inhibiting expression of a Mylip/Idol         gene in the cell.

In another aspect, the invention provides methods and compositions useful for activating expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in a cell or mammal.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for modulating the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in a cell by performing the following steps:

-   -   (a) introducing into the cell a double-stranded ribonucleic acid         (dsRNA), wherein the dsRNA includes at least two sequences that         are complementary to each other. The dsRNA has a sense strand         having a first sequence and an antisense strand having a second         sequence; the antisense strand has a region of complementarity         that is substantially complementary to at least a part of an         mRNA encoding Mylip/Idol, and where the region of         complementarity is 30 nucleotides or less, i.e., 15-30         nucleotides in length, and generally 19-24 nucleotides in         length, and where the dsRNA, upon contact with a cell expressing         Mylip/Idol, modulates expression of a Mylip/Idol gene by at         least 10%, preferably at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%         or more; and     -   (b) maintaining the cell produced in step (a) for a time         sufficient to obtain degradation or protection of the mRNA         transcript of the Mylip/Idol gene, thereby modulating expression         of a Mylip/Idol gene in the cell.

In one embodiment, the method is for inhibiting gene expression in a macrophage, a fibroblast, or a liver cell. In another embodiment, the method is for activating gene expression in a macrophage, a fibroblast, or a liver cell.

In another embodiment, the method is for inhibiting gene expression in a neuronal cell. In another embodiment, the method is for activating gene expression in a neuronal cell.

In other aspects, the invention provides methods for treating, preventing, reversing, or managing pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression, such as a lipid disorder. In one embodiment, the method includes administering to a patient in need of such treatment, prevention, reversal, or management a therapeutically or prophylactically effective amount of one or more of the iRNAs featured in the invention. In one embodiment the patient has diabetes or atherosclerosis. In another embodiment, administration of the iRNA targeting Mylip/Idol alleviates or relieves the severity of at least one symptom of a Mylip/Idol-mediated disorder in the patient, such as high LDLc level, high ApoB level, or high total cholesterol level. In another embodiment, administration of the Mylip/Idol dsRNA does not lower the level of HDL cholesterol in the patient. In another embodiment, administration of the Mylip/Idol dsRNA increases neurite outgrowth and/or reduces at least one symptom of a neurodegenerative disease.

In one aspect, the invention provides a vector for inhibiting the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in a cell. In one embodiment, the vector includes at least one regulatory sequence operably linked to a nucleotide sequence that encodes at least one strand of an iRNA as described herein.

In another aspect, the invention provides a cell containing a vector for inhibiting the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in a cell. The vector includes a regulatory sequence operably linked to a nucleotide sequence that encodes at least one strand of one of the iRNAs as described herein.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides a composition containing a Mylip/Idol iRNA, in combination with a second iRNA targeting a second gene involved in a pathological disease, and useful for treating the disease, e.g., a lipid disorder, metabolic disorder or neurodegenerative disorder.

The details of various embodiments of the invention are set forth in the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and the drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is the sequence of human Mylip/Idol mRNA (Ref. Seq. NM_013262.3, SEQ ID NO: 644).

FIG. 2 is a sequence of mouse Mylip/Idol mRNA, isoform 1 (Ref. Seq. NM_153789.3; SEQ ID NO: 645).

FIG. 3 is a sequence of mouse Mylip/Idol mRNA, isoform 2 (Ref. Seq. NM_181043.1; SEQ ID NO: 646).

FIG. 4 is a sequence of rat Mylip/Idol mRNA (Ref. Seq. NM_001107344.1; SEQ ID NO: 647).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Described herein are iRNAs and methods of using them for inhibiting the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in a cell or a mammal where the iRNA targets a Mylip/Idol gene. Also provided are compositions and methods for treating pathological conditions and diseases, such as a lipid disorder, neurodegenerative disease, or a metabolic disorder, in a mammal caused by the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene. iRNA directs the sequence-specific degradation of mRNA through a process known as RNA interference (RNAi). In one embodiment, the iRNA activates the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in a cell or mammal, where the iRNA targets a Mylip/Idol gene.

Double-stranded RNA molecules (dsRNA) have been shown to block gene expression in a highly conserved regulatory mechanism known as RNA interference (RNAi). WO 99/32619 (Fire et al.) disclosed the use of a dsRNA of at least 25 nucleotides in length to inhibit the expression of genes in C. elegans. dsRNA has also been shown to degrade target RNA in other organisms, including plants (see, e.g., WO 99/53050, Waterhouse et al.; and WO 99/61631, Heifetz et al.), Drosophila (see, e.g., Yang, D., et al., Curr. Biol. (2000) 10:1191-1200), and mammals (see WO 00/44895, Limmer; and DE 101 00 586.5, Kreutzer et al.). This natural mechanism has now become the focus for the development of a new class of pharmaceutical agents for treating disorders that are caused by the aberrant or unwanted regulation of a gene.

The iRNAs of the compositions described herein include an RNA strand (the antisense strand) having a region which is 30 nucleotides or less in length, i.e., 15-30 nucleotides in length, generally 19-24 nucleotides in length, which region is substantially complementary to at least part of an mRNA transcript of a Mylip/Idol gene. The use of these iRNAs enables the targeted degradation of mRNAs of genes that are implicated in pathologies associated with Mylip/Idol expression in mammals. Very low dosages of Mylip/Idol iRNAs in particular can specifically and efficiently mediate RNAi, resulting in significant inhibition of expression of a Mylip/Idol gene. Using cell-based assays, the present inventors have demonstrated that iRNAs targeting Mylip/Idol can specifically and efficiently mediate RNAi, resulting in significant inhibition of expression of a Mylip/Idol gene. Thus, methods and compositions including these iRNAs are useful for treating pathological processes that can be mediated by down regulating Mylip/Idol, such as in the treatment of a lipid disorder, e.g., atherosclerosis, and hypercholesterolemia. The following detailed description discloses how to make and use compositions containing iRNAs to inhibit the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene, as well as compositions and methods for treating diseases and disorders caused by the expression of this gene.

Embodiments of the pharmaceutical compositions featured herein also include an iRNA having an antisense strand comprising a region which is 30 nucleotides or less in length, generally 19-24 nucleotides in length, which region is substantially complementary to at least part of an RNA transcript of a Mylip/Idol gene, together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Embodiments of compositions featured in the invention also include an iRNA having an antisense strand having a region of complementarity which is 30 nucleotides or less in length, generally 19-24 nucleotides in length, and is substantially complementary to at least part of an RNA transcript of a Mylip/Idol gene.

Accordingly, in some aspects, pharmaceutical compositions containing a Mylip/Idol iRNA and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, methods of using the compositions to inhibit expression of a Mylip/Idol gene, and methods of using the pharmaceutical compositions to treat diseases caused by expression of a Mylip/Idol gene are featured in the invention.

I. DEFINITIONS

For convenience, the meaning of certain terms and phrases used in the specification, examples, and appended claims, are provided below. If there is an apparent discrepancy between the usage of a term in other parts of this specification and its definition provided in this section, the definition in this section shall prevail.

“G,” “C,” “A,” “T” and “U” each generally stand for a nucleotide that contains guanine, cytosine, adenine, thymidine and uracil as a base, respectively. However, it will be understood that the term “ribonucleotide” or “nucleotide” can also refer to a modified nucleotide, as further detailed below, or a surrogate replacement moiety. The skilled person is well aware that guanine, cytosine, adenine, and uracil may be replaced by other moieties without substantially altering the base pairing properties of an oligonucleotide comprising a nucleotide bearing such replacement moiety. For example, without limitation, a nucleotide comprising inosine as its base may base pair with nucleotides containing adenine, cytosine, or uracil. Hence, nucleotides containing uracil, guanine, or adenine can be replaced in the nucleotide sequences of dsRNA featured herein by a nucleotide containing, for example, inosine. In another example, adenine and cytosine anywhere in the oligonucleotide can be replaced with guanine and uracil, respectively to form G-U Wobble base pairing with the target mRNA. Sequences containing such replacement moieties are suitable for the compositions and methods described herein.

As used herein, “Myosin regulatory light chain interacting protein” (“Mylip”) or “inducible degrador of the LDL-R” (“Idol”) refers to a particular polypeptide expressed in a cell. Mylip is also known as Idol, Mylip/Idol, MIR (myosin regulatory light chain (MRLC) interacting protein) and MSAP. The sequence of a human Mylip/Idol mRNA transcript can be found at NM_013262.3 (SEQ ID NO: 644). The sequence of mouse Mylip/Idol mRNA can be found at NM_153789.3 (isoform 1; SEQ ID NO: 645) or NM_181043.1 (isoform 2; SEQ ID NO: 646), and the sequence of rat Mylip/Idol mRNA can be found at NM_001107344.1 (SEQ ID NO: 647). The mouse and rat sequences of Mylip/Idol are highly conserved.

As used herein, the term “iRNA” refers to an agent that contains RNA as that term is defined herein, and which mediates the targeted cleavage of an RNA transcript via an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) pathway. In one embodiment, an iRNA as described herein effects inhibition of Mylip/Idol expression. Alternatively, in another embodiment, an iRNA as described herein activates Mylip/Idol expression.

As used herein, “target sequence” refers to a contiguous portion of the nucleotide sequence of an mRNA molecule formed during the transcription of a Mylip/Idol gene, including messenger RNA (mRNA) that is a product of RNA processing of a primary transcription product. The target portion of the sequence will be at least long enough to serve as a substrate for iRNA-directed cleavage at or near that portion. For example, the target sequence will generally be from 9-36 nucleotides in length, e.g., 15-30 nucleotides in length, including all sub-ranges therebetween. As non-limiting examples, the target sequence can be from 15-30 nucleotides, 15-26 nucleotides, 15-23 nucleotides, 15-22 nucleotides, 15-21 nucleotides, 15-20 nucleotides, 15-19 nucleotides, 15-18 nucleotides, 15-17 nucleotides, 18-30 nucleotides, 18-26 nucleotides, 18-23 nucleotides, 18-22 nucleotides, 18-21 nucleotides, 18-20 nucleotides, 19-30 nucleotides, 19-26 nucleotides, 19-23 nucleotides, 19-22 nucleotides, 19-21 nucleotides, 19-20 nucleotides, 20-30 nucleotides, 20-26 nucleotides, 20-25 nucleotides, 20-24 nucleotides, 20-23 nucleotides, 20-22 nucleotides, 20-21 nucleotides, 21-30 nucleotides, 21-26 nucleotides, 21-25 nucleotides, 21-24 nucleotides, 21-23 nucleotides, or 21-22 nucleotides.

As used herein, the term “strand comprising a sequence” refers to an oligonucleotide comprising a chain of nucleotides that is described by the sequence referred to using the standard nucleotide nomenclature.

As used herein, and unless otherwise indicated, the term “complementary,” when used to describe a first nucleotide sequence in relation to a second nucleotide sequence, refers to the ability of an oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising the first nucleotide sequence to hybridize and form a duplex structure under certain conditions with an oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising the second nucleotide sequence, as will be understood by the skilled person. Such conditions can, for example, be stringent conditions, where stringent conditions may include: 400 mM NaCl, 40 mM PIPES pH 6.4, 1 mM EDTA, 50° C. or 70° C. for 12-16 hours followed by washing. Other conditions, such as physiologically relevant conditions as can be encountered inside an organism, can apply. The skilled person will be able to determine the set of conditions most appropriate for a test of complementarity of two sequences in accordance with the ultimate application of the hybridized nucleotides.

Complementary sequences within an iRNA, e.g., within a dsRNA as described herein, include base-pairing of the oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising a first nucleotide sequence to an oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising a second nucleotide sequence over the entire length of one or both nucleotide sequences. Such sequences can be referred to as “fully complementary” with respect to each other herein. However, where a first sequence is referred to as “substantially complementary” with respect to a second sequence herein, the two sequences can be fully complementary, or they can form one or more, but generally not more than 5, 4, 3 or 2 mismatched base pairs upon hybridization for a duplex up to 30 base pairs (bp), while retaining the ability to hybridize under the conditions most relevant to their ultimate application, e.g., inhibition of gene expression via a RISC pathway. However, where two oligonucleotides are designed to form, upon hybridization, one or more single stranded overhangs, such overhangs shall not be regarded as mismatches with regard to the determination of complementarity. For example, a dsRNA comprising one oligonucleotide 21 nucleotides in length and another oligonucleotide 23 nucleotides in length, wherein the longer oligonucleotide comprises a sequence of 21 nucleotides that is fully complementary to the shorter oligonucleotide, may yet be referred to as “fully complementary” for the purposes described herein.

“Complementary” sequences, as used herein, can also include, or be formed entirely from, non-Watson-Crick base pairs and/or base pairs formed from non-natural and modified nucleotides, in as far as the above requirements with respect to their ability to hybridize are fulfilled. Such non-Watson-Crick base pairs includes, but are not limited to, G:U Wobble or Hoogstein base pairing.

The terms “complementary,” “fully complementary” and “substantially complementary” herein can be used with respect to the base matching between the sense strand and the antisense strand of a dsRNA, or between the antisense strand of an iRNA agent and a target sequence, as will be understood from the context of their use.

As used herein, a polynucleotide that is “substantially complementary to at least part of” a messenger RNA (an mRNA) refers to a polynucleotide that is substantially complementary to a contiguous portion of the mRNA of interest (e.g., an mRNA encoding Mylip/Idol). For example, a polynucleotide is complementary to at least a part of a Mylip/Idol mRNA if the sequence is substantially complementary to a non-interrupted portion of an mRNA encoding Mylip/Idol.

The term “double-stranded RNA” or “dsRNA,” as used herein, refers to an iRNA that includes an RNA molecule or complex of molecules having a hybridized duplex region that comprises two anti-parallel and substantially complementary nucleic acid strands, which will be referred to as having “sense” and “antisense” orientations with respect to a target RNA. The duplex region can be of any length that permits specific degradation of a desired target RNA through a RISC pathway, but will typically range from 9 to 36 base pairs in length, e.g., 15-30 base pairs in length. Considering a duplex between 9 and 36 base pairs, the duplex can be any length in this range, for example, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, or 36 and any sub-range therein between, including, but not limited to 15-30 base pairs, 15-26 base pairs, 15-23 base pairs, 15-22 base pairs, 15-21 base pairs, 15-20 base pairs, 15-19 base pairs, 15-18 base pairs, 15-17 base pairs, 18-30 base pairs, 18-26 base pairs, 18-23 base pairs, 18-22 base pairs, 18-21 base pairs, 18-20 base pairs, 19-30 base pairs, 19-26 base pairs, 19-23 base pairs, 19-22 base pairs, 19-21 base pairs, 19-20 base pairs, 20-30 base pairs, 20-26 base pairs, 20-25 base pairs, 20-24 base pairs, 20-23 base pairs, 20-22 base pairs, 20-21 base pairs, 21-30 base pairs, 21-26 base pairs, 21-25 base pairs, 21-24 base pairs, 21-23 base pairs, or 21-22 base pairs. dsRNAs generated in the cell by processing with Dicer and similar enzymes are generally in the range of 19-22 base pairs in length. One strand of the duplex region of a dsDNA comprises a sequence that is substantially complementary to a region of a target RNA. The two strands forming the duplex structure can be from a single RNA molecule having at least one self-complementary region, or can be formed from two or more separate RNA molecules. Where the duplex region is formed from two strands of a single molecule, the molecule can have a duplex region separated by a single stranded chain of nucleotides (herein referred to as a “hairpin loop”) between the 3′-end of one strand and the 5′-end of the respective other strand forming the duplex structure. The hairpin loop can comprise at least one unpaired nucleotide; in some embodiments the hairpin loop can comprise at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 20, at least 23 or more unpaired nucleotides. Where the two substantially complementary strands of a dsRNA are comprised by separate RNA molecules, those molecules need not, but can be covalently connected. Where the two strands are connected covalently by means other than a hairpin loop, the connecting structure is referred to as a “linker.” The term “siRNA” is also used herein to refer to a dsRNA as described above.

The skilled artisan will recognize that the term “RNA molecule” or “ribonucleic acid molecule” encompasses not only RNA molecules as expressed or found in nature, but also analogs and derivatives of RNA comprising one or more ribonucleotide/ribonucleoside analogs or derivatives as described herein or as known in the art. Strictly speaking, a “ribonucleoside” includes a nucleoside base and a ribose sugar, and a “ribonucleotide” is a ribonucleoside with one, two or three phosphate moieties. However, the terms “ribonucleoside” and “ribonucleotide” can be considered to be equivalent as used herein. The RNA can be modified in the nucleobase structure or in the ribose-phosphate backbone structure, e.g., as described herein below. However, the molecules comprising ribonucleoside analogs or derivatives must retain the ability to form a duplex. As non-limiting examples, an RNA molecule can also include at least one modified ribonucleoside including but not limited to a 2′-O-methyl modified nucleoside, a nucleoside comprising a 5′ phosphorothioate group, a terminal nucleoside linked to a cholesteryl derivative or dodecanoic acid bisdecylamide group, a locked nucleoside, an abasic nucleoside, a 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro modified nucleoside, a 2′-amino-modified nucleoside, 2′-alkyl-modified nucleoside, morpholino nucleoside, a phosphoramidate or a non-natural base comprising nucleoside, or any combination thereof. Alternatively, an RNA molecule can comprise at least two modified ribonucleosides, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 15, at least 20 or more, up to the entire length of the dsRNA molecule. The modifications need not be the same for each of such a plurality of modified ribonucleosides in an RNA molecule. In one embodiment, modified RNAs contemplated for use in methods and compositions described herein are peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) that have the ability to form the required duplex structure and that permit or mediate the specific degradation of a target RNA via a RISC pathway.

In one aspect, a modified ribonucleoside includes a deoxyribonucleoside. In such an instance, an iRNA agent can comprise one or more deoxynucleosides, including, for example, a deoxynucleoside overhang(s), or one or more deoxynucleosides within the double stranded portion of a dsRNA. However, it is self evident that under no circumstances is a double stranded DNA molecule encompassed by the term “iRNA.”

In one aspect, an RNA interference agent includes a single stranded RNA that interacts with a target RNA sequence to direct the cleavage of the target RNA. Without wishing to be bound by theory, long double stranded RNA introduced into plants and invertebrate cells is broken down into siRNA by a Type III endonuclease known as Dicer (Sharp et al., Genes Dev. 2001, 15:485). Dicer, a ribonuclease-III-like enzyme, processes the dsRNA into 19-23 base pair short interfering RNAs with characteristic two base 3′ overhangs (Bernstein, et al., (2001) Nature 409:363). The siRNAs are then incorporated into an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) where one or more helicases unwind the siRNA duplex, enabling the complementary antisense strand to guide target recognition (Nykanen, et al., (2001) Cell 107:309). Upon binding to the appropriate target mRNA, one or more endonucleases within the RISC cleaves the target to induce silencing (Elbashir, et al., (2001) Genes Dev. 15:188). Thus, in one aspect the invention relates to a single stranded RNA that promotes the formation of a RISC complex to effect silencing of the target gene.

As used herein, the term “nucleotide overhang” refers to at least one unpaired nucleotide that protrudes from the duplex structure of an iRNA, e.g., a dsRNA. For example, when a 3′-end of one strand of a dsRNA extends beyond the 5′-end of the other strand, or vice versa, there is a nucleotide overhang. A dsRNA can comprise an overhang of at least one nucleotide; alternatively the overhang can comprise at least two nucleotides, at least three nucleotides, at least four nucleotides, at least five nucleotides or more. A nucleotide overhang can comprise or consist of a nucleotide/nucleoside analog, including a deoxynucleotide/nucleoside. The overhang(s) may be on the sense strand, the antisense strand or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the nucleotide(s) of an overhang can be present on the 5′ end, 3′ end or both ends of either an antisense or sense strand of a dsRNA.

In one embodiment, the antisense strand of a dsRNA has a 1-10 nucleotide overhang at the 3′ end and/or the 5′ end. In one embodiment, the sense strand of a dsRNA has a 1-10 nucleotide overhang at the 3′ end and/or the 5′ end. In another embodiment, one or more of the nucleotides in the overhang is replaced with a nucleoside thiophosphate.

The terms “blunt” or “blunt ended” as used herein in reference to a dsRNA mean that there are no unpaired nucleotides or nucleotide analogs at a given terminal end of a dsRNA, i.e., no nucleotide overhang. One or both ends of a dsRNA can be blunt. Where both ends of a dsRNA are blunt, the dsRNA is said to be blunt ended. To be clear, a “blunt ended” dsRNA is a dsRNA that is blunt at both ends, i.e., no nucleotide overhang at either end of the molecule. Most often such a molecule will be double-stranded over its entire length.

The term “antisense strand” or “guide strand” refers to the strand of an iRNA, e.g., a dsRNA, which includes a region that is substantially complementary to a target sequence. As used herein, the term “region of complementarity” refers to the region on the antisense strand that is substantially complementary to a sequence, for example a target sequence, as defined herein. Where the region of complementarity is not fully complementary to the target sequence, the mismatches may be in the internal or terminal regions of the molecule. Generally, the most tolerated mismatches are in the terminal regions, e.g., within 5, 4, 3, or 2 nucleotides of the 5′ and/or 3′ terminus.

The term “sense strand,” or “passenger strand” as used herein, refers to the strand of an iRNA that includes a region that is substantially complementary to a region of the antisense strand as that term is defined herein.

As used herein, in one embodiment, the term “SNALP” refers to a stable nucleic acid-lipid particle. A SNALP represents a vesicle of lipids coating a reduced aqueous interior comprising a nucleic acid such as an iRNA or a plasmid from which an iRNA is transcribed. SNALPs are described, e.g., in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 20060240093, 20070135372, and in International Application No. WO 2009082817. Examples of “SNALP” formulations are described elsewhere herein.

“Introducing into a cell,” when referring to an iRNA, means facilitating or effecting uptake or absorption into the cell, as is understood by those skilled in the art. Absorption or uptake of an iRNA can occur through unaided diffusive or active cellular processes, or by auxiliary agents or devices. The meaning of this term is not limited to cells in vitro; an iRNA can also be “introduced into a cell,” wherein the cell is part of a living organism. In such an instance, introduction into the cell will include the delivery to the organism. For example, for in vivo delivery, iRNA can be injected into a tissue site or administered systemically. In vivo delivery can also be by a beta-glucan delivery system, such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,032,401 and 5,607,677, and U.S. Publication No. 2005/0281781 which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In vitro introduction into a cell includes methods known in the art such as electroporation and lipofection. Further approaches are described herein below or are known in the art.

As used herein, the term “modulate the expression of,” refers to at an least partial “inhibition” or partial “activation” of Mylip/Idol gene expression in a cell treated with an iRNA composition as described herein compared to the expression of Mylip/Idol in an untreated cell.

The terms “activate,” “enhance,” “up-regulate the expression of,” “increase the expression of,” and the like, in so far as they refer to a Mylip/Idol gene, herein refer to the at least partial activation of the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene, as manifested by an increase in the amount of Mylip/Idol mRNA, which can be isolated from or detected in a first cell or group of cells in which a Mylip/Idol gene is transcribed and which has or have been treated such that the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene is increased, as compared to a second cell or group of cells substantially identical to the first cell or group of cells but which has or have not been so treated (control cells).

In one embodiment, expression of a Mylip/Idol gene is activated by at least about 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50% by administration of an iRNA as described herein. In some embodiments, a Mylip/Idol gene is activated by at least about 60%, 70%, or 80% by administration of an iRNA featured in the invention. In some embodiments, expression of a Mylip/Idol gene is activated by at least about 85%, 90%, or 95% or more by administration of an iRNA as described herein. In some embodiments, the Mylip/Idol gene expression is increased by at least 1-fold, at least 2-fold, at least 5-fold, at least 10-fold, at least 50-fold, at least 100-fold, at least 500-fold, at least 1000 fold or more in cells treated with an iRNA as described herein compared to the expression in an untreated cell. Activation of expression by small dsRNAs is described, for example, in Li et al., 2006 Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 103:17337-42, and in US20070111963 and US2005226848, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The terms “silence,” “inhibit the expression of,” “down-regulate the expression of,” “suppress the expression of,” and the like, in so far as they refer to a Mylip/Idol gene, herein refer to the at least partial suppression of the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene, as manifested by a reduction of the amount of Mylip/Idol mRNA which can be isolated from or detected in a first cell or group of cells in which a Mylip/Idol gene is transcribed and which has or have been treated such that the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene is inhibited, as compared to a second cell or group of cells substantially identical to the first cell or group of cells but which has or have not been so treated (control cells). The degree of inhibition is usually expressed in terms of

${\frac{\left( {{mRNA}\mspace{14mu} {in}{\; \mspace{11mu}}{control}\mspace{14mu} {cells}} \right) - \left( {{mRNA}\mspace{14mu} {in}{\; \mspace{11mu}}{treated}\mspace{14mu} {cells}} \right)}{\left( {{mRNA}\mspace{14mu} {in}\mspace{14mu} {control}\mspace{14mu} {cells}} \right)} \cdot 100}\%$

Alternatively, the degree of inhibition can be given in terms of a reduction of a parameter that is functionally linked to Mylip/Idol gene expression, e.g., the amount of protein encoded by a Mylip/Idol gene, or the number of cells displaying a certain phenotype, e.g., stabilization of microtubules. In principle, Mylip/Idol gene silencing can be determined in any cell expressing Mylip/Idol, either constitutively or by genomic engineering, and by any appropriate assay. However, when a reference is needed in order to determine whether a given iRNA inhibits the expression of the Mylip/Idol gene by a certain degree and therefore is encompassed by the instant invention, the assays provided in the Examples below shall serve as such reference.

For example, in certain instances, expression of a Mylip/Idol gene is suppressed by at least about 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50% by administration of an iRNA featured in the invention. In some embodiments, a Mylip/Idol gene is suppressed by at least about 60%, 70%, or 80% by administration of an iRNA described herein. In some embodiments, a Mylip/Idol gene is suppressed by at least about 85%, 90%, 95%, 98%, 99%, or more, by administration of an iRNA as described herein.

As used herein in the context of Mylip/Idol expression, the terms “treat,” “treatment,” and the like, refer to relief from or alleviation of pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression. In the context of the present invention insofar as it relates to any of the other conditions recited herein below (other than pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression), the terms “treat,” “treatment,” and the like mean to relieve or alleviate at least one symptom associated with such condition, or to slow or reverse the progression or anticipated progression of such condition, such as slowing the progression of a lipid disorder, such as atherosclerosis.

By “lower” in the context of a disease marker or symptom is meant a statistically significant decrease in such level. The decrease can be, for example, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40% or more, and is preferably down to a level accepted as within the range of normal for an individual without such disorder.

As used herein, the phrases “therapeutically effective amount” and “prophylactically effective amount” refer to an amount that provides a therapeutic benefit in the treatment, prevention, or management of pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression or an overt symptom of pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression. The specific amount that is therapeutically effective can be readily determined by an ordinary medical practitioner, and can vary depending on factors known in the art, such as, for example, the type of pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression, the patient's history and age, the stage of pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression, and the administration of other agents that inhibit pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression.

As used herein, a “pharmaceutical composition” comprises a pharmacologically effective amount of an iRNA and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. As used herein, “pharmacologically effective amount,” “therapeutically effective amount” or simply “effective amount” refers to that amount of an iRNA effective to produce the intended pharmacological, therapeutic or preventive result. For example, if a given clinical treatment is considered effective when there is at least a 10% reduction in a measurable parameter associated with a disease or disorder, a therapeutically effective amount of a drug for the treatment of that disease or disorder is the amount necessary to effect at least a 10% reduction in that parameter. For example, a therapeutically effective amount of an iRNA targeting Mylip/Idol can reduce Mylip/Idol protein levels by at least 10%.

As used herein, the term “neurodegenerative disease” refers to a disorder of the central nervous system including e.g.: intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and other degenerative diseases of the basal ganglia; other neurological causes of memory loss or impairment, including Down's syndrome, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, prion diseases, cerebral ischemia and stroke; multiple sclerosis; motor neuron disease, such as amyotropic lateral sclerosis; neurological viral disease; Huntington's disease; hereditary spastic hemiplegia; primary lateral sclerosis; spinal muscular atrophy; Kennedy's disease; Shy-Drager syndrome; Progressive Supranuclear Palsy; Lewy Body Disease; neuronopathies; dementia; frontotemporal lobe dementia; affective disorders (e.g. stress, depression and post-traumatic depression); neuropsychiatric disorders (e.g. schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy); learning and memory disorders; and ocular neuron disorders) trigeminal neuralgia; glossopharyngeal neuralgia; Bell's Palsy; myasthenia gravis; progressive muscular atrophy; progressive bulbar inherited muscular atrophy; herniated, cervical spondylosis; plexus disorders; thoracic outlet destruction syndromes; peripheral neuropathies; prophyria; muscular dystrophy; a polyglutamine repeat disease; and spongiform encephalopathy. In one embodiment, the neurodegenerative disease is a result of injury or trauma and includes e.g., post-surgical neurological dysfunction; ischemic disorders (e.g. cerebral or spinal cord infarction and ischemia, chronic ischemic brain disease, and stroke); kaumas (e.g. caused by physical injury or surgery, and compression injuries); ruptured and prolapsed invertebrate disk syndromes, among others. Ocular neuron disorders can also be treated with the methods and compositions described herein and include, but are not limited to, retina or optic nerve disorders; optic nerve damage and optic neuropathies such as Lebers hereditary optic neuropathy, autosomal dominant optic atrophy, optic neuritis; disorders of the optic nerve or visual pathways; toxic neuropathies and toxic retinopathies; optic atrophy; glaucoma; retinal degenerations such as retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy.

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” refers to a carrier for administration of a therapeutic agent. Such carriers include, but are not limited to, saline, buffered saline, dextrose, water, glycerol, ethanol, and combinations thereof. The term specifically excludes cell culture medium. For drugs administered orally, pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include, but are not limited to pharmaceutically acceptable excipients such as inert diluents, disintegrating agents, binding agents, lubricating agents, sweetening agents, flavoring agents, coloring agents and preservatives. Suitable inert diluents include sodium and calcium carbonate, sodium and calcium phosphate, and lactose, while corn starch and alginic acid are suitable disintegrating agents. Binding agents may include starch and gelatin, while the lubricating agent, if present, will generally be magnesium stearate, stearic acid or talc. If desired, the tablets may be coated with a material such as glyceryl monostearate or glyceryl distearate, to delay absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Agents included in drug formulations are described further herein below.

As used herein, a “subject” is a mammal, e.g. a dog, horse, cat, and other non-human primates. In a preferred embodiment, a subject is a human.

As used herein, the term “LNPXX”, wherein the “XX” are numerals, is also referred to as “AFXX” herein. For example, LNP09 is also referred to AF09 and LNP12 is also known as or referred to as AF12.

As used herein, the term “comprising” or “comprises” is used in reference to compositions, methods, and respective component(s) thereof, that are essential to the invention, yet open to the inclusion of unspecified elements, whether essential or not.

As used herein, the term “consisting essentially of” refers to those elements required for a given embodiment. The term permits the presence of elements that do not materially affect the basic and novel or functional characteristic(s) of that embodiment of the invention.

The term “consisting of” refers to compositions, methods, and respective components thereof as described herein, which are exclusive of any element not recited in that description of the embodiment.

II. DOUBLE-STRANDED RIBONUCLEIC ACID (DSRNA)

Described herein are iRNA agents that modulate the expression of the Mylip/Idol gene. In one embodiment, the iRNA agent includes double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) molecules for inhibiting the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in a cell or mammal, e.g., in a human having a lipid disorder, where the dsRNA includes an antisense strand having a region of complementarity which is complementary to at least a part of an mRNA formed in the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene, and where the region of complementarity is 30 nucleotides or less in length, generally 19-24 nucleotides in length, and where the dsRNA, upon contact with a cell expressing the Mylip/Idol gene, inhibits the expression of the Mylip/Idol gene by at least 10% as assayed by, for example, a PCR or branched DNA (bDNA)-based method, or by a protein-based method, such as by Western blot. In one embodiment, the iRNA agent activates the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in a cell or mammal. Expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in cell culture, such as in COS cells, HeLa cells, primary hepatocytes, HepG2 cells, primary cultured cells or in a biological sample from a subject, can be assayed by measuring Mylip/Idol mRNA levels, such as by bDNA or TaqMan assay, or by measuring protein levels, such as by immunofluorescence analysis, using, for example, Western blotting or flow cytometric techniques.

A dsRNA includes two RNA strands that are complementary to hybridize to form a duplex structure under conditions in which the dsRNA will be used. One strand of a dsRNA (the antisense strand) includes a region of complementarity that is substantially complementary, and generally fully complementary, to a target sequence. The target sequence can be derived from the sequence of an mRNA formed during the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene. The other strand (the sense strand) includes a region that is complementary to the antisense strand, such that the two strands hybridize and form a duplex structure when combined under suitable conditions. Generally, the duplex structure is between 15 and 30 inclusive, more generally between 18 and 25 inclusive, yet more generally between 19 and 24 inclusive, and most generally between 19 and 21 base pairs in length, inclusive. Similarly, the region of complementarity to the target sequence is between 15 and 30 inclusive, more generally between 18 and 25 inclusive, yet more generally between 19 and 24 inclusive, and most generally between 19 and 21 nucleotides in length, inclusive. In some embodiments, the dsRNA is between 15 and 20 nucleotides in length, inclusive, and in other embodiments, the dsRNA is between 25 and 30 nucleotides in length, inclusive. As the ordinarily skilled person will recognize, the targeted region of an RNA targeted for cleavage will most often be part of a larger RNA molecule, often an mRNA molecule. Where relevant, a “part” of an mRNA target is a contiguous sequence of an mRNA target of sufficient length to be a substrate for RNAi-directed cleavage (i.e., cleavage through a RISC pathway). dsRNAs having duplexes as short as 9 base pairs can, under some circumstances, mediate RNAi-directed RNA cleavage. Most often a target will be at least 15 nucleotides in length, preferably 15-30 nucleotides in length.

One of skill in the art will also recognize that the duplex region is a primary functional portion of a dsRNA, e.g., a duplex region of 9 to 36, e.g., 15-30 base pairs. Thus, in one embodiment, to the extent that it becomes processed to a functional duplex of e.g., 15-30 base pairs that targets a desired RNA for cleavage, an RNA molecule or complex of RNA molecules having a duplex region greater than 30 base pairs is a dsRNA. Thus, an ordinarily skilled artisan will recognize that in one embodiment, then, an miRNA is a dsRNA. In another embodiment, a dsRNA is not a naturally occurring miRNA. In another embodiment, an iRNA agent useful to target Mylip/Idol expression is not generated in the target cell by cleavage of a larger dsRNA.

A dsRNA as described herein can further include one or more single-stranded nucleotide overhangs. The dsRNA can be synthesized by standard methods known in the art as further discussed below, e.g., by use of an automated DNA synthesizer, such as are commercially available from, for example, Biosearch, Applied Biosystems, Inc. In one embodiment, a Mylip/Idol gene is a human Mylip/Idol gene. In another embodiment the Mylip/Idol gene is a mouser or a rat Mylip/Idol gene. In specific embodiments, the first sequence is a sense strand of a dsRNA that includes a sense sequence of one of Tables 3 and 5, and the second sequence is selected from the group consisting of the antisense sequences of one of Tables 3 and 5. Alternative dsRNA agents that target elsewhere in the target sequence provided in Tables 3 and 5 can readily be determined using the target sequence and the flanking Mylip/Idol sequence.

In one aspect, a dsRNA will include at least two nucleotide sequences, a sense and an antisense sequence, whereby the sense strand is selected from the groups of sequences provided in Table 3 (SEQ ID NO: 20-SEQ ID NO: 167; SEQ ID NO: 648-SEQ ID NO: 1103), Table 4 (SEQ ID NO: 168-SEQ ID NO: 299), Table 5 (SEQ ID NO: 300-SEQ ID NO: 447), and Table 6 (SEQ ID NO: 448-SEQ ID NO: 579), and the corresponding antisense strand of the sense strand selected from Table 3 (SEQ ID NO: 20-SEQ ID NO: 167; SEQ ID NO: 648-SEQ ID NO: 1103), Table 4 (SEQ ID NO: 168-SEQ ID NO: 299), Table 5 (SEQ ID NO: 300-SEQ ID NO: 447), and Table 6 (SEQ ID NO: 448-SEQ ID NO: 579). In this aspect, one of the two sequences is complementary to the other of the two sequences, with one of the sequences being substantially complementary to a sequence of an mRNA generated in the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene. As such, in this aspect, a dsRNA will include two oligonucleotides, where one oligonucleotide is described as the sense strand in Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6, and the second oligonucleotide is described as the corresponding antisense strand of the sense strand from Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6. As described elsewhere herein and as known in the art, the complementary sequences of a dsRNA can also be contained as self-complementary regions of a single nucleic acid molecule, as opposed to being on separate oligonucleotides.

The skilled person is well aware that dsRNAs having a duplex structure of between 20 and 23, but specifically 21, base pairs have been hailed as particularly effective in inducing RNA interference (Elbashir et al., EMBO 2001, 20:6877-6888). However, others have found that shorter or longer RNA duplex structures can be effective as well. In the embodiments described above, by virtue of the nature of the oligonucleotide sequences provided in Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6, dsRNAs described herein can include at least one strand of a length of minimally 21 nt. It can be reasonably expected that shorter duplexes having one of the sequences of Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6 minus only a few nucleotides on one or both ends may be similarly effective as compared to the dsRNAs described above. Hence, dsRNAs having a partial sequence of at least 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or more contiguous nucleotides from one of the sequences of Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6, and differing in their ability to inhibit the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene by not more than 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30% inhibition from a dsRNA comprising the full sequence, are contemplated according to the invention.

In addition, the RNAs provided in Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6 identify a site in a Mylip/Idol transcript that is susceptible to RISC-mediated cleavage. As such, the present invention further features iRNAs that target within one of such sequences. As used herein, an iRNA is said to target within a particular site of an RNA transcript if the iRNA promotes cleavage of the transcript anywhere within that particular site. Such an iRNA will generally include at least 15 contiguous nucleotides from one of the sequences provided in Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6 coupled to additional nucleotide sequences taken from the region contiguous to the selected sequence in a Mylip/Idol gene.

While a target sequence is generally 15-30 nucleotides in length, there is wide variation in the suitability of particular sequences in this range for directing cleavage of any given target RNA. Various software packages and the guidelines set out herein provide guidance for the identification of optimal target sequences for any given gene target, but an empirical approach can also be taken in which a “window” or “mask” of a given size (as a non-limiting example, 21 nucleotides) is literally or figuratively (including, e.g., in silico) placed on the target RNA sequence to identify sequences in the size range that may serve as target sequences. By moving the sequence “window” progressively one nucleotide upstream or downstream of an initial target sequence location, the next potential target sequence can be identified, until the complete set of possible sequences is identified for any given target size selected. This process, coupled with systematic synthesis and testing of the identified sequences (using assays as described herein or as known in the art) to identify those sequences that perform optimally can identify those RNA sequences that, when targeted with an iRNA agent, mediate the best inhibition of target gene expression. Thus, while the sequences identified, for example, in Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6 represent effective target sequences, it is contemplated that further optimization of inhibition efficiency can be achieved by progressively “walking the window” one nucleotide upstream or downstream of the given sequences to identify sequences with equal or better inhibition characteristics.

Further, it is contemplated that for any sequence identified, e.g., in Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6, further optimization could be achieved by systematically either adding or removing nucleotides to generate longer or shorter sequences and testing those and sequences generated by walking a window of the longer or shorter size up or down the target RNA from that point. Again, coupling this approach to generating new candidate targets with testing for effectiveness of iRNAs based on those target sequences in an inhibition assay as known in the art or as described herein can lead to further improvements in the efficiency of inhibition. Further still, such optimized sequences can be adjusted by, e.g., the introduction of modified nucleotides as described herein or as known in the art, addition or changes in overhang, or other modifications as known in the art and/or discussed herein to further optimize the molecule (e.g., increasing serum stability or circulating half-life, increasing thermal stability, enhancing transmembrane delivery, targeting to a particular location or cell type, increasing interaction with silencing pathway enzymes, increasing release from endosomes, etc.) as an expression inhibitor.

An iRNA as described herein can contain one or more mismatches to the target sequence. In one embodiment, an iRNA as described herein contains no more than 3 mismatches. If the antisense strand of the iRNA contains mismatches to a target sequence, it is preferable that the area of mismatch not be located in the center of the region of complementarity. If the antisense strand of the iRNA contains mismatches to the target sequence, it is preferable that the mismatch be restricted to be within the last 5 nucleotides from either the 5′ or 3′ end of the region of complementarity. For example, for a 23 nucleotide iRNA agent RNA strand which is complementary to a region of a Mylip/Idol gene, the RNA strand generally does not contain any mismatch within the central 13 nucleotides. The methods described herein or methods known in the art can be used to determine whether an iRNA containing a mismatch to a target sequence is effective in inhibiting the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene. Consideration of the efficacy of iRNAs with mismatches in inhibiting expression of a Mylip/Idol gene is important, especially if the particular region of complementarity in a Mylip/Idol gene is known to have polymorphic sequence variation within the population.

In one embodiment, at least one end of a dsRNA has a single-stranded nucleotide overhang of 1 to 4, generally 1 or 2 nucleotides. Such dsRNAs having at least one nucleotide overhang have unexpectedly superior inhibitory properties relative to their blunt-ended counterparts. In yet another embodiment, the RNA of an iRNA, e.g., a dsRNA, is chemically modified to enhance stability or other beneficial characteristics. The nucleic acids featured in the invention may be synthesized and/or modified by methods well established in the art, such as those described in “Current protocols in nucleic acid chemistry,” Beaucage, S. L. et al. (Edrs.), John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, N.Y., USA, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Modifications include, for example, (a) end modifications, e.g., 5′ end modifications (phosphorylation, conjugation, inverted linkages, etc.) 3′ end modifications (conjugation, DNA nucleotides, inverted linkages, etc.), (b) base modifications, e.g., replacement with stabilizing bases, destabilizing bases, or bases that base pair with an expanded repertoire of partners, removal of bases (abasic nucleotides), or conjugated bases, (c) sugar modifications (e.g., at the 2′ position or 4′ position) or replacement of the sugar, as well as (d) backbone modifications, including modification or replacement of the phosphodiester linkages. Specific examples of RNA compounds useful in the embodiments described herein include, but are not limited to, RNAs containing modified backbones or no natural internucleoside linkages. RNAs having modified backbones include, among others, those that do not have a phosphorus atom in the backbone. For the purposes of this specification, and as sometimes referenced in the art, modified RNAs that do not have a phosphorus atom in their internucleoside backbone can also be considered to be oligonucleosides. In particular embodiments, the modified RNA will have a phosphorus atom in its internucleoside backbone.

Modified RNA backbones include, for example, phosphorothioates, chiral phosphorothioates, phosphorodithioates, phosphotriesters, aminoalkylphosphotriesters, methyl and other alkyl phosphonates including 3′-alkylene phosphonates and chiral phosphonates, phosphinates, phosphoramidates including 3′-amino phosphoramidate and aminoalkylphosphoramidates, thionophosphoramidates, thionoalkylphosphonates, thionoalkylphosphotriesters, and boranophosphates having normal 3′-5′ linkages, 2′-5′ linked analogs of these, and those) having inverted polarity wherein the adjacent pairs of nucleoside units are linked 3′-5′ to 5′-3′ or 2′-5′ to 5′-2′. Various salts, mixed salts and free acid forms are also included.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of the above phosphorus-containing linkages include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,687,808; 4,469,863; 4,476,301; 5,023,243; 5,177,195; 5,188,897; 5,264,423; 5,276,019; 5,278,302; 5,286,717; 5,321,131; 5,399,676; 5,405,939; 5,453,496; 5,455,233; 5,466,677; 5,476,925; 5,519,126; 5,536,821; 5,541,316; 5,550,111; 5,563,253; 5,571,799; 5,587,361; 5,625,050; 6,028,188; 6,124,445; 6,160,109; 6,169,170; 6,172,209; 6,239,265; 6,277,603; 6,326,199; 6,346,614; 6,444,423; 6,531,590; 6,534,639; 6,608,035; 6,683,167; 6,858,715; 6,867,294; 6,878,805; 7,015,315; 7,041,816; 7,273,933; 7,321,029; and U.S. Pat. RE39464, each of which is herein incorporated by reference.

Modified RNA backbones that do not include a phosphorus atom therein have backbones that are formed by short chain alkyl or cycloalkyl internucleoside linkages, mixed heteroatoms and alkyl or cycloalkyl internucleoside linkages, or one or more short chain heteroatomic or heterocyclic internucleoside linkages. These include those having morpholino linkages (formed in part from the sugar portion of a nucleoside); siloxane backbones; sulfide, sulfoxide and sulfone backbones; formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones; methylene formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones; alkene containing backbones; sulfamate backbones; methyleneimino and methylenehydrazino backbones; sulfonate and sulfonamide backbones; amide backbones; and others having mixed N, O, S and CH₂ component parts.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of the above oligonucleosides include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,034,506; 5,166,315; 5,185,444; 5,214,134; 5,216,141; 5,235,033; 5,64,562; 5,264,564; 5,405,938; 5,434,257; 5,466,677; 5,470,967; 5,489,677; 5,541,307; 5,561,225; 5,596,086; 5,602,240; 5,608,046; 5,610,289; 5,618,704; 5,623,070; 5,663,312; 5,633,360; 5,677,437; and, 5,677,439, each of which is herein incorporated by reference.

In other RNA mimetics suitable or contemplated for use in iRNAs, both the sugar and the internucleoside linkage, i.e., the backbone, of the nucleotide units are replaced with novel groups. The base units are maintained for hybridization with an appropriate nucleic acid target compound. One such oligomeric compound, an RNA mimetic that has been shown to have excellent hybridization properties, is referred to as a peptide nucleic acid (PNA). In PNA compounds, the sugar backbone of an RNA is replaced with an amide containing backbone, in particular an aminoethylglycine backbone. The nucleobases are retained and are bound directly or indirectly to aza nitrogen atoms of the amide portion of the backbone. Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of PNA compounds include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,539,082; 5,714,331; and 5,719,262, each of which is herein incorporated by reference. Further teaching of PNA compounds can be found, for example, in Nielsen et al., Science, 1991, 254, 1497-1500.

Some embodiments featured in the invention include RNAs with phosphorothioate backbones and oligonucleosides with heteroatom backbones, and in particular —CH₂—NH—CH₂—, —CH₂—N(CH₃)—O—CH₂— [known as a methylene (methylimino) or MMI backbone], —CH₂—O—N(CH₃)—CH₂—, —CH₂—N(CH₃)—N(CH₃)—CH₂— and —N(CH₃)—CH₂—CH₂— [wherein the native phosphodiester backbone is represented as —O—P—O—CH₂—] of the above-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,489,677, and the amide backbones of the above-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,602,240. In some embodiments, the RNAs featured herein have morpholino backbone structures of the above-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,034,506.

Modified RNAs can also contain one or more substituted sugar moieties. The iRNAs, e.g., dsRNAs, featured herein can include one of the following at the 2′ position: OH; F; O—, S—, or N-alkyl; O—, S—, or N-alkenyl; O—, S- or N-alkynyl; or O-alkyl-O-alkyl, wherein the alkyl, alkenyl and alkynyl may be substituted or unsubstituted C₁ to C₁₀ alkyl or C₂ to C₁₀ alkenyl and alkynyl. Exemplary suitable modifications include O[(CH₂)_(n)O]_(m)CH₃, O(CH₂)._(n)OCH₃, O(CH₂)_(n)NH₂, O(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, O(CH₂)_(n)ONH₂, and O(CH₂)_(n)O[(CH₂)_(n)CH₃)]₂, where n and m are from 1 to about 10. In other embodiments, dsRNAs include one of the following at the 2′ position: C₁ to C₁₀ lower alkyl, substituted lower alkyl, alkaryl, aralkyl, O-alkaryl or O-aralkyl, SH, SCH₃, OCN, Cl, Br, CN, CF₃, OCF₃, SOCH₃, SO₂CH₃, ONO₂, NO₂, N₃, NH₂, heterocycloalkyl, heterocycloalkaryl, aminoalkylamino, polyalkylamino, substituted silyl, an RNA cleaving group, a reporter group, an intercalator, a group for improving the pharmacokinetic properties of an iRNA, or a group for improving the pharmacodynamic properties of an iRNA, and other substituents having similar properties. In some embodiments, the modification includes a 2′-methoxyethoxy (2′-O—CH₂CH₂OCH₃, also known as 2′-O-(2-methoxyethyl) or 2′-MOE) (Martin et al., Helv. Chim. Acta, 1995, 78:486-504) i.e., an alkoxy-alkoxy group. Another exemplary modification is 2′-dimethylaminooxyethoxy, i.e., a O(CH₂)₂ON(CH₃)₂ group, also known as 2′-DMAOE, as described in examples herein below, and 2′-dimethylaminoethoxyethoxy (also known in the art as 2′-O-dimethylaminoethoxyethyl or 2′-DMAEOE), i.e., 2′-O—CH₂—O—CH₂—N(CH₂)₂, also described in examples herein below.

Other modifications include 2′-methoxy (2′-OCH₃), 2′-aminopropoxy (2′-OCH₂CH₂CH₂NH₂) and 2′-fluoro (2′-F). Similar modifications can also be made at other positions on the RNA of an iRNA, particularly the 3′ position of the sugar on the 3′ terminal nucleotide or in 2′-5′ linked dsRNAs and the 5′ position of 5′ terminal nucleotide. iRNAs may also have sugar mimetics such as cyclobutyl moieties in place of the pentofuranosyl sugar. Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of such modified sugar structures include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,981,957; 5,118,800; 5,319,080; 5,359,044; 5,393,878; 5,446,137; 5,466,786; 5,514,785; 5,519,134; 5,567,811; 5,576,427; 5,591,722; 5,597,909; 5,610,300; 5,627,053; 5,639,873; 5,646,265; 5,658,873; 5,670,633; and 5,700,920, certain of which are commonly owned with the instant application, and each of which is herein incorporated by reference.

An iRNA can also include nucleobase (often referred to in the art simply as “base”) modifications or substitutions. As used herein, “unmodified” or “natural” nucleobases include the purine bases adenine (A) and guanine (G), and the pyrimidine bases thymine (T), cytosine (C) and uracil (U). Modified nucleobases include other synthetic and natural nucleobases such as 5-methylcytosine (5-me-C), 5-hydroxymethyl cytosine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, 2-aminoadenine, 6-methyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-propyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-thiouracil, 2-thiothymine and 2-thiocytosine, 5-halouracil and cytosine, 5-propynyl uracil and cytosine, 6-azo uracil, cytosine and thymine, 5-uracil (pseudouracil), 4-thiouracil, 8-halo, 8-amino, 8-thiol, 8-thioalkyl, 8-hydroxyl anal other 8-substituted adenines and guanines, 5-halo, particularly 5-bromo, 5-trifluoromethyl and other 5-substituted uracils and cytosines, 7-methylguanine and 7-methyladenine, 8-azaguanine and 8-azaadenine, 7-deazaguanine and 7-daazaadenine and 3-deazaguanine and 3-deazaadenine. Further nucleobases include those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,687,808, those disclosed in Modified Nucleosides in Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Medicine, Herdewijn, P. ed. Wiley-VCH, 2008; those disclosed in The Concise Encyclopedia Of Polymer Science And Engineering, pages 858-859, Kroschwitz, J. L, ed. John Wiley & Sons, 1990, these disclosed by Englisch et al., Angewandte Chemie, International Edition, 1991, 30, 613, and those disclosed by Sanghvi, Y S., Chapter 15, dsRNA Research and Applications, pages 289-302, Crooke, S. T. and Lebleu, B., Ed., CRC Press, 1993. Certain of these nucleobases are particularly useful for increasing the binding affinity of the oligomeric compounds featured in the invention. These include 5-substituted pyrimidines, 6-azapyrimidines and N-2, N-6 and 0-6 substituted purines, including 2-aminopropyladenine, 5-propynyluracil and 5-propynylcytosine. 5-methylcytosine substitutions have been shown to increase nucleic acid duplex stability by 0.6-1.2° C. (Sanghvi, Y. S., Crooke, S. T. and Lebleu, B., Eds., dsRNA Research and Applications, CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1993, pp. 276-278) and are exemplary base substitutions, even more particularly when combined with 2′-O-methoxyethyl sugar modifications.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of certain of the above noted modified nucleobases as well as other modified nucleobases include, but are not limited to, the above noted U.S. Pat. No. 3,687,808, as well as U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,845,205; 5,130,30; 5,134,066; 5,175,273; 5,367,066; 5,432,272; 5,457,187; 5,459,255; 5,484,908; 5,502,177; 5,525,711; 5,552,540; 5,587,469; 5,594,121, 5,596,091; 5,614,617; 5,681,941; 6,015,886; 6,147,200; 6,166,197; 6,222,025; 6,235,887; 6,380,368; 6,528,640; 6,639,062; 6,617,438; 7,045,610; 7,427,672; and 7,495,088, each of which is herein incorporated by reference, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,750,692, also herein incorporated by reference.

The RNA of an iRNA can also be modified to include one or more locked nucleic acids (LNA). A locked nucleic acid is a nucleotide having a modified ribose moiety in which the ribose moiety comprises an extra bridge connecting the 2′ and 4′ carbons. This structure effectively “locks” the ribose in the 3′-endo structural conformation. The addition of locked nucleic acids to siRNAs has been shown to increase siRNA stability in serum, and to reduce off-target effects (Elmen, J. et al., (2005) Nucleic Acids Research 33(1):439-447; Mook, O R. et al., (2007) Mol Canc Ther 6(3):833-843; Grunweller, A. et al., (2003) Nucleic Acids Research 31(12):3185-3193).

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of locked nucleic acid nucleotides include, but are not limited to, the following: U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,268,490; 6,670,461; 6,794,499; 6,998,484; 7,053,207; 7,084,125; and 7,399,845, each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Another modification of the RNA of an iRNA featured in the invention involves chemically linking to the RNA one or more ligands, moieties or conjugates that enhance the activity, cellular distribution, pharmacokinetic properties, or cellular uptake of the iRNA. Such moieties include but are not limited to lipid moieties such as a cholesterol moiety (Letsinger et al., Proc. Natl. Acid. Sci. USA, 1989, 86: 6553-6556), cholic acid (Manoharan et al., Biorg. Med. Chem. Let., 1994, 4:1053-1060), a thioether, e.g., beryl-S-tritylthiol (Manoharan et al., Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci., 1992, 660:306-309; Manoharan et al., Biorg. Med. Chem. Let., 1993, 3:2765-2770), a thiocholesterol (Oberhauser et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 1992, 20:533-538), an aliphatic chain, e.g., dodecandiol or undecyl residues (Saison-Behmoaras et al., EMBO J, 1991, 10:1111-1118; Kabanov et al., FEBS Lett., 1990, 259:327-330; Svinarchuk et al., Biochimie, 1993, 75:49-54), a phospholipid, e.g., di-hexadecyl-rac-glycerol or triethyl-ammonium 1,2-di-O-hexadecyl-rac-glycero-3-phosphonate (Manoharan et al., Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651-3654; Shea et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 1990, 18:3777-3783), a polyamine or a polyethylene glycol chain (Manoharan et al., Nucleosides & Nucleotides, 1995, 14:969-973), or adamantane acetic acid (Manoharan et al., Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651-3654), a palmityl moiety (Mishra et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta, 1995, 1264:229-237), or an octadecylamine or hexylamino-carbonyloxycholesterol moiety (Crooke et al., J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther., 1996, 277:923-937).

In one embodiment, a ligand alters the distribution, targeting or lifetime of an iRNA agent into which it is incorporated. In preferred embodiments a ligand provides an enhanced affinity for a selected target, e.g., molecule, cell or cell type, compartment, e.g., a cellular or organ compartment, tissue, organ or region of the body, as, e.g., compared to a species absent such a ligand. Preferred ligands will not take part in duplex pairing in a duplexed nucleic acid.

Ligands can include a naturally occurring substance, such as a protein (e.g., human serum albumin (HSA), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or globulin); carbohydrate (e.g., a dextran, pullulan, chitin, chitosan, inulin, cyclodextrin or hyaluronic acid); or a lipid. The ligand may also be a recombinant or synthetic molecule, such as a synthetic polymer, e.g., a synthetic polyamino acid. Examples of polyamino acids include polyamino acid is a polylysine (PLL), poly L-aspartic acid, poly L-glutamic acid, styrene-maleic acid anhydride copolymer, poly(L-lactide-co-glycolied) copolymer, divinyl ether-maleic anhydride copolymer, N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide copolymer (HMPA), polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyurethane, poly(2-ethylacryllic acid), N-isopropylacrylamide polymers, or polyphosphazine. Example of polyamines include: polyethylenimine, polylysine (PLL), spermine, spermidine, polyamine, pseudopeptide-polyamine, peptidomimetic polyamine, dendrimer polyamine, arginine, amidine, protamine, cationic lipid, cationic porphyrin, quaternary salt of a polyamine, or an alpha helical peptide.

Ligands can also include targeting groups, e.g., a cell or tissue targeting agent, e.g., a lectin, glycoprotein, lipid or protein, e.g., an antibody, that binds to a specified cell type such as a kidney cell. A targeting group can be a thyrotropin, melanotropin, lectin, glycoprotein, surfactant protein A, Mucin carbohydrate, multivalent lactose, multivalent galactose, N-acetyl-galactosamine, N-acetyl-gulucosamine multivalent mannose, multivalent fucose, glycosylated polyaminoacids, multivalent galactose, transferrin, bisphosphonate, polyglutamate, polyaspartate, a lipid, cholesterol, a steroid, bile acid, folate, vitamin B12, vitamin A, biotin, or an RGD peptide or RGD peptide mimetic.

Other examples of ligands include dyes, intercalating agents (e.g. acridines), cross-linkers (e.g. psoralene, mitomycin C), porphyrins (TPPC4, texaphyrin, Sapphyrin), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g., phenazine, dihydrophenazine), artificial endonucleases (e.g. EDTA), lipophilic molecules, e.g., cholesterol, cholic acid, adamantane acetic acid, 1-pyrene butyric acid, dihydrotestosterone, 1,3-Bis-O(hexadecyl)glycerol, geranyloxyhexyl group, hexadecylglycerol, borneol, menthol, 1,3-propanediol, heptadecyl group, palmitic acid, myristic acid, O3-(oleoyl)lithocholic acid, O3-(oleoyl)cholenic acid, dimethoxytrityl, or phenoxazine) and peptide conjugates (e.g., antennapedia peptide, Tat peptide), alkylating agents, phosphate, amino, mercapto, PEG (e.g., PEG-40K), MPEG, [MPEG]₂, polyamino, alkyl, substituted alkyl, radiolabeled markers, enzymes, haptens (e.g. biotin), transport/absorption facilitators (e.g., aspirin, vitamin E, folic acid), synthetic ribonucleases (e.g., imidazole, bisimidazole, histamine, imidazole clusters, acridine-imidazole conjugates, Eu3+ complexes of tetraazamacrocycles), dinitrophenyl, HRP, or AP.

Ligands can be proteins, e.g., glycoproteins, or peptides, e.g., molecules having a specific affinity for a co-ligand, or antibodies e.g., an antibody, that binds to a specified cell type such as a cancer cell, endothelial cell, or bone cell. Ligands may also include hormones and hormone receptors. They can also include non-peptidic species, such as lipids, lectins, carbohydrates, vitamins, cofactors, multivalent lactose, multivalent galactose, N-acetyl-galactosamine, N-acetyl-gulucosamine multivalent mannose, or multivalent fucose. The ligand can be, for example, a lipopolysaccharide, an activator of p38 MAP kinase, or an activator of NF-κB.

The ligand can be a substance, e.g., a drug, which can increase the uptake of the iRNA agent into the cell, for example, by disrupting the cell's cytoskeleton, e.g., by disrupting the cell's microtubules, microfilaments, and/or intermediate filaments. The drug can be, for example, taxon, vincristine, vinblastine, cytochalasin, nocodazole, japlakinolide, latrunculin A, phalloidin, swinholide A, indanocine, or myoservin.

In some embodiments, a ligand attached to an iRNA as described herein acts as a PK modulator. As used herein, a “PK modulator” refers to a pharmacokinetic modulator. PK modulators include lipophiles, bile acids, steroids, phospholipid analogues, peptides, protein binding agents, PEG, vitamins etc. Examplary PK modulators include, but are not limited to, cholesterol, fatty acids, cholic acid, lithocholic acid, dialkylglycerides, diacylglyceride, phospholipids, sphingolipids, naproxen, ibuprofen, vitamin E, biotin etc. Oligonucleotides that comprise a number of phosphorothioate linkages are also known to bind to serum protein, thus short oligonucleotides, e.g., oligonucleotides of about 5 bases, 10 bases, 15 bases or 20 bases, comprising multiple of phosphorothioate linkages in the backbone are also amenable to the present invention as ligands (e.g. as PK modulating ligands). In addition, aptamers that bind serum components (e.g. serum proteins) are also suitable for use as PK modulating ligands in the embodiments described herein.

For macromolecular drugs and hydrophilic drug molecules, which cannot easily cross bilayer membranes, entrapment in endosomal/lysosomal compartments of the cell is thought to be the biggest hurdle for effective delivery to their site of action. In recent years, a number of approaches and strategies have been devised to address this problem. For liposomal formulations, the use of fusogenic lipids in the formulation have been the most common approach (Singh, R. S., Goncalves, C. et al. (2004). On the Gene Delivery Efficacies of pH-Sensitive Cationic Lipids via Endosomal Protonation. A Chemical Biology Investigation. Chem. Biol. 11, 713-723.). Other components, which exhibit pH-sensitive endosomolytic activity through protonation and/or pH-induced conformational changes, include charged polymers and peptides. Examples may be found in Hoffman, A. S., Stayton, P. S. et al. (2002). Design of “smart” polymers that can direct intracellular drug delivery. Polymers Adv. Technol. 13, 992-999; Kakudo, Chaki, T., S. et al. (2004). Transferrin-Modified Liposomes Equipped with a pH-Sensitive Fusogenic Peptide: An Artificial Viral-like Delivery System. Biochemistry 436, 5618-5628; Yessine, M. A. and Leroux, J. C. (2004). Membrane-destabilizing polyanions: interaction with lipid bilayers and endosomal escape of biomacromolecules. Adv. Drug Deliv. Rev. 56, 999-1021; Oliveira, S., van Rooy, I. et al. (2007). Fusogenic peptides enhance endosomal escape improving iRNA-induced silencing of oncogenes. Int. J. Pharm. 331, 211-4. They have generally been used in the context of drug delivery systems, such as liposomes or lipoplexes. For folate receptor-mediated delivery using liposomal formulations, for instance, a pH-sensitive fusogenic peptide has been incorporated into the liposomes and shown to enhance the activity through improving the unloading of drug during the uptake process (Turk, M. J., Reddy, J. A. et al. (2002). Characterization of a novel pH-sensitive peptide that enhances drug release from folate-targeted liposomes at endosomal pHs is described in Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1559, 56-68).

In certain embodiments, the endosomolytic components of the present invention can be polyanionic peptides or peptidomimetics which show pH-dependent membrane activity and/or fusogenicity. A peptidomimetic can be a small protein-like chain designed to mimic a peptide. A peptidomimetic can arise from modification of an existing peptide in order to alter the molecule's properties, or the synthesis of a peptide-like molecule using unnatural amino acids or their analogs. In certain embodiments, they have improved stability and/or biological activity when compared to a peptide. In certain embodiments, the endosomolytic component assumes its active conformation at endosomal pH (e.g., pH 5-6). The “active” conformation is that conformation in which the endosomolytic component promotes lysis of the endosome and/or transport of the modular composition of the invention, or its any of its components (e.g., a nucleic acid), from the endosome to the cytoplasm of the cell.

Libraries of compounds can be screened for their differential membrane activity at endosomal pH versus neutral pH using a hemolysis assay. Promising candidates isolated by this method may be used as components of the modular compositions of the invention. A method for identifying an endosomolytic component for use in the compositions and methods of the present invention may comprise: providing a library of compounds; contacting blood cells with the members of the library, wherein the pH of the medium in which the contact occurs is controlled; determining whether the compounds induce differential lysis of blood cells at a low pH (e.g., about pH 5-6) versus neutral pH (e.g., about pH 7-8).

Exemplary endosomolytic components include the GALA peptide (Subbarao et al., Biochemistry, 1987, 26: 2964-2972), the EALA peptide (Vogel et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 1996, 118: 1581-1586), and their derivatives (Turk et al., Biochem. Biophys. Acta, 2002, 1559: 56-68). In certain embodiments, the endosomolytic component can contain a chemical group (e.g., an amino acid) which will undergo a change in charge or protonation in response to a change in pH. The endosomolytic component may be linear or branched. Exemplary primary sequences of endosomolytic components include H2N-(AALEALAEALEALAEALEALAEAAAAGGC)-CO2H (SEQ ID NO: 1104); H2N-(AALAEALAEALAEALAEALAEALAAAAGGC)-CO2H (SEQ ID NO: 1105); and H2N-(ALEALAEALEALAEA)-CONH2 (SEQ ID NO: 1106).

In certain embodiments, more than one endosomolytic component can be incorporated into the iRNA agent of the invention. In some embodiments, this will entail incorporating more than one of the same endosomolytic component into the iRNA agent. In other embodiments, this will entail incorporating two or more different endosomolytic components into iRNA agent.

These endosomolytic components can mediate endosomal escape by, for example, changing conformation at endosomal pH. In certain embodiments, the endosomolytic components can exist in a random coil conformation at neutral pH and rearrange to an amphipathic helix at endosomal pH. As a consequence of this conformational transition, these peptides may insert into the lipid membrane of the endosome, causing leakage of the endosomal contents into the cytoplasm. Because the conformational transition is pH-dependent, the endosomolytic components can display little or no fusogenic activity while circulating in the blood (pH ˜7.4). “Fusogenic activity,” as used herein, is defined as that activity which results in disruption of a lipid membrane by the endosomolytic component. One example of fusogenic activity is the disruption of the endosomal membrane by the endosomolytic component, leading to endosomal lysis or leakage and transport of one or more components of the modular composition of the invention (e.g., the nucleic acid) from the endosome into the cytoplasm.

In addition to hemolysis assays, as described herein, suitable endosomolytic components can be tested and identified by a skilled artisan using other methods. For example, the ability of a compound to respond to, e.g., change charge depending on, the pH environment can be tested by routine methods, e.g., in a cellular assay. In certain embodiments, a test compound is combined with or contacted with a cell, and the cell is allowed to internalize the test compound, e.g., by endocytosis. An endosome preparation can then be made from the contacted cells and the endosome preparation compared to an endosome preparation from control cells. A change, e.g., a decrease, in the endosome fraction from the contacted cell vs. the control cell indicates that the test compound can function as a fusogenic agent. Alternatively, the contacted cell and control cell can be evaluated, e.g., by microscopy, e.g., by light or electron microscopy, to determine a difference in the endosome population in the cells. The test compound and/or the endosomes can labeled, e.g., to quantify endosomal leakage.

In another type of assay, an iRNA agent described herein is constructed using one or more test or putative fusogenic agents. The iRNA agent can be labeled for easy visualization. The ability of the endosomolytic component to promote endosomal escape, once the iRNA agent is taken up by the cell, can be evaluated, e.g., by preparation of an endosome preparation, or by microscopy techniques, which enable visualization of the labeled iRNA agent in the cytoplasm of the cell. In certain other embodiments, the inhibition of gene expression, or any other physiological parameter, may be used as a surrogate marker for endosomal escape.

In other embodiments, circular dichroism spectroscopy can be used to identify compounds that exhibit a pH-dependent structural transition.

A two-step assay can also be performed, wherein a first assay evaluates the ability of a test compound alone to respond to changes in pH, and a second assay evaluates the ability of a modular composition that includes the test compound to respond to changes in pH.

Lipid Conjugates

In one ligand, the ligand or conjugate is a lipid or lipid-based molecule. Such a lipid or lipid-based molecule preferably binds a serum protein, e.g., human serum albumin (HSA). An HSA binding ligand allows for distribution of the conjugate to a target tissue, e.g., a non-kidney target tissue of the body. For example, the target tissue can be the liver, including parenchymal cells of the liver. Other molecules that can bind HSA can also be used as ligands. For example, neproxin or aspirin can be used. A lipid or lipid-based ligand can (a) increase resistance to degradation of the conjugate, (b) increase targeting or transport into a target cell or cell membrane, and/or (c) can be used to adjust binding to a serum protein, e.g., HSA.

A lipid based ligand can be used to modulate, e.g., control the binding of the conjugate to a target tissue. For example, a lipid or lipid-based ligand that binds to HSA more strongly will be less likely to be targeted to the kidney and therefore less likely to be cleared from the body. A lipid or lipid-based ligand that binds to HSA less strongly can be used to target the conjugate to the kidney.

In a preferred embodiment, the lipid based ligand binds HSA. Preferably, it binds HSA with a sufficient affinity such that the conjugate will be preferably distributed to a non-kidney tissue. However, it is preferred that the affinity not be so strong that the HSA-ligand binding cannot be reversed.

In another preferred embodiment, the lipid based ligand binds HSA weakly or not at all, such that the conjugate will be preferably distributed to the kidney. Other moieties that target to kidney cells can also be used in place of or in addition to the lipid based ligand.

In another aspect, the ligand is a moiety, e.g., a vitamin, which is taken up by a target cell, e.g., a proliferating cell. These are particularly useful for treating disorders characterized by unwanted cell proliferation, e.g., of the malignant or non-malignant type, e.g., cancer cells. Exemplary vitamins include vitamin A, E, and K. Other exemplary vitamins include are B vitamin, e.g., folic acid, B12, riboflavin, biotin, pyridoxal or other vitamins or nutrients taken up by cancer cells. Also included are HSA and low density lipoprotein (LDL).

In another aspect, the ligand is a cell-permeation agent, preferably a helical cell-permeation agent. Preferably, the agent is amphipathic. An exemplary agent is a peptide such as tat or antennopedia. If the agent is a peptide, it can be modified, including a peptidylmimetic, invertomers, non-peptide or pseudo-peptide linkages, and use of D-amino acids. The helical agent is preferably an alpha-helical agent, which preferably has a lipophilic and a lipophobic phase.

Cell Permeation Peptides

Peptides suitable for use with the present invention can be a natural peptide, e.g., tat or antennopedia peptide, a synthetic peptide, or a peptidomimetic. Furthermore, the peptide can be a modified peptide, for example peptide can comprise non-peptide or pseudo-peptide linkages, and D-amino acids. A peptidomimetic (also referred to herein as an oligopeptidomimetic) is a molecule capable of folding into a defined three-dimensional structure similar to a natural peptide. The attachment of peptide and peptidomimetics to iRNA agents can affect pharmacokinetic distribution of the iRNA, such as by enhancing cellular recognition and absorption. The peptide or peptidomimetic moiety can be about 5-50 amino acids long, e.g., about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50 amino acids long.

A peptide or peptidomimetic can be, for example, a cell permeation peptide, cationic peptide, amphipathic peptide, or hydrophobic peptide (e.g., consisting primarily of Tyr, Trp or Phe). The peptide moiety can be a dendrimer peptide, constrained peptide or crosslinked peptide. In another alternative, the peptide moiety can include a hydrophobic membrane translocation sequence (MTS). An exemplary hydrophobic MTS-containing peptide is RFGF having the amino acid sequence AAVALLPAVLLALLAP (SEQ ID NO:16). An RFGF analogue (e.g., amino acid sequence AALLPVLLAAP (SEQ ID NO:17)) containing a hydrophobic MTS can also be a targeting moiety. The peptide moiety can be a “delivery” peptide, which can carry large polar molecules including peptides, oligonucleotides, and protein across cell membranes. For example, sequences from the HIV Tat protein (GRKKRRQRRRPPQ (SEQ ID NO:18)) and the Drosophila Antennapedia protein (RQIKIWFQNRRMKWKK (SEQ ID NO:19)) have been found to be capable of functioning as delivery peptides. A peptide or peptidomimetic can be encoded by a random sequence of DNA, such as a peptide identified from a phage-display library, or one-bead-one-compound (OBOC) combinatorial library (Lam et al., Nature, 354:82-84, 1991). Preferably, the peptide or peptidomimetic tethered to the lipid is a cell-targeting peptide such as an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD)-peptide, or RGD mimic. A peptide moiety can range in length from about 5 amino acids to about 40 amino acids. The peptide moieties can have a structural modification, such as to increase stability or direct conformational properties. Any of the structural modifications described below can be utilized.

An RGD peptide moiety can be used to target a tumor cell, such as an endothelial tumor cell or a breast cancer tumor cell (Zitzmann et al., Cancer Res., 62:5139-43, 2002). An RGD peptide can facilitate targeting of an dsRNA agent to tumors of a variety of other tissues, including the lung, kidney, spleen, or liver (Aoki et al., Cancer Gene Therapy 8:783-787, 2001). Preferably, the RGD peptide will facilitate targeting of an iRNA agent to the kidney. The RGD peptide can be linear or cyclic, and can be modified, e.g., glycosylated or methylated to facilitate targeting to specific tissues. For example, a glycosylated RGD peptide can deliver a iRNA agent to a tumor cell expressing α_(v)β₃ (Haubner et al., Jour. Nucl. Med., 42:326-336, 2001).

Peptides that target markers enriched in proliferating cells can be used. E.g., RGD containing peptides and peptidomimetics can target cancer cells, in particular cells that exhibit an αvβ3 integrin. Thus, one could use RGD peptides, cyclic peptides containing RGD, RGD peptides that include D-amino acids, as well as synthetic RGD mimics. In addition to RGD, one can use other moieties that target the αvβ3 integrin ligand. Generally, such ligands can be used to control proliferating cells and angiogenesis.

A “cell permeation peptide” is capable of permeating a cell, e.g., a microbial cell, such as a bacterial or fungal cell, or a mammalian cell, such as a human cell. A microbial cell-permeating peptide can be, for example, an α-helical linear peptide (e.g., LL-37 or Ceropin P1), a disulfide bond-containing peptide (e.g., α-defensin, β-defensin or bactenecin), or a peptide containing only one or two dominating amino acids (e.g., PR-39 or indolicidin). A cell permeation peptide can also include a nuclear localization signal (NLS). For example, a cell permeation peptide can be a bipartite amphipathic peptide, such as MPG, which is derived from the fusion peptide domain of HIV-1 gp41 and the NLS of SV40 large T antigen (Simeoni et al., Nucl. Acids Res. 31:2717-2724, 2003).

Carbohydrate Conjugates

In some embodiments, the iRNA oligonucleotides described herein further comprise carbohydrate conjugates. The carbohydrate conjugates are advantageous for the in vivo delivery of nucleic acids, as well as compositions suitable for in vivo therapeutic use, as described herein. As used herein, “carbohydrate” refers to a compound which is either a carbohydrate per se made up of one or more monosaccharide units having at least 6 carbon atoms (which may be linear, branched or cyclic) with an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur atom bonded to each carbon atom; or a compound having as a part thereof a carbohydrate moiety made up of one or more monosaccharide units each having at least six carbon atoms (which may be linear, branched or cyclic), with an oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur atom bonded to each carbon atom. Representative carbohydrates include the sugars (mono-, di-, tri- and oligosaccharides containing from about 4-9 monosaccharide units), and polysaccharides such as starches, glycogen, cellulose and polysaccharide gums. Specific monosaccharides include C₅ and above (preferably C₅-C₈) sugars; di- and trisaccharides include sugars having two or three monosaccharide units (preferably C₅-C₈).

In one embodiment, the carbohydrate conjugate is selected from the group consisting of:

i.e., Formula II-Formula XXII.

Another representative carbohydrate conjugate for use in the embodiments described herein includes, but is not limited to,

when one of X or Y is an oligonucleotide, the other is a hydrogen.

In some embodiments, the carbohydrate conjugate further comprises other ligand such as, but not limited to, PK modulator, endosomolytic ligand, and cell permeation peptide.

Linkers

In some embodiments, the conjugates described herein can be attached to the iRNA oligonucleotide with various linkers that can be cleavable or non cleavable.

The term “linker” or “linking group” means an organic moiety that connects two parts of a compound. Linkers typically comprise a direct bond or an atom such as oxygen or sulfur, a unit such as NR⁸, C(O), C(O)NH, SO, SO₂, SO₂NH or a chain of atoms, such as, but not limited to, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkynyl, arylalkyl, arylalkenyl, arylalkynyl, heteroarylalkyl, heteroarylalkenyl, heteroarylalkynyl, heterocyclylalkyl, heterocyclylalkenyl, heterocyclylalkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, alkylarylalkyl, alkylarylalkenyl, alkylarylalkynyl, alkenylarylalkyl, alkenylarylalkenyl, alkenylarylalkynyl, alkynylarylalkyl, alkynylarylalkenyl, alkynylarylalkynyl, alkylheteroarylalkyl, alkylheteroarylalkenyl, alkylheteroarylalkynyl, alkenylheteroarylalkyl, alkenylheteroarylalkenyl, alkenylheteroarylalkynyl, alkynylheteroarylalkyl, alkynylheteroarylalkenyl, alkynylheteroarylalkynyl, alkylheterocyclylalkyl, alkylheterocyclylalkenyl, alkylhererocyclylalkynyl, alkenylheterocyclylalkyl, alkenylheterocyclylalkenyl, alkenylheterocyclylalkynyl, alkynylheterocyclylalkyl, alkynylheterocyclylalkenyl, alkynylheterocyclylalkynyl, alkylaryl, alkenylaryl, alkynylaryl, alkylheteroaryl, alkenylheteroaryl, alkynylhereroaryl, which one or more methylenes can be interrupted or terminated by O, S, S(O), SO₂, N(R⁸), C(O), substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic; where R⁸ is hydrogen, acyl, aliphatic or substituted aliphatic. In one embodiment, the linker is between 1-24 atoms, preferably 4-24 atoms, preferably 6-18 atoms, more preferably 8-18 atoms, and most preferably 8-16 atoms.

A cleavable linking group is one which is sufficiently stable outside the cell, but which upon entry into a target cell is cleaved to release the two parts the linker is holding together. In a preferred embodiment, the cleavable linking group is cleaved at least 10 times or more, preferably at least 100 times faster in the target cell or under a first reference condition (which can, e.g., be selected to mimic or represent intracellular conditions) than in the blood of a subject, or under a second reference condition (which can, e.g., be selected to mimic or represent conditions found in the blood or serum).

Cleavable linking groups are susceptible to cleavage agents, e.g., pH, redox potential or the presence of degradative molecules. Generally, cleavage agents are more prevalent or found at higher levels or activities inside cells than in serum or blood. Examples of such degradative agents include: redox agents which are selected for particular substrates or which have no substrate specificity, including, e.g., oxidative or reductive enzymes or reductive agents such as mercaptans, present in cells, that can degrade a redox cleavable linking group by reduction; esterases; endosomes or agents that can create an acidic environment, e.g., those that result in a pH of five or lower; enzymes that can hydrolyze or degrade an acid cleavable linking group by acting as a general acid, peptidases (which can be substrate specific), and phosphatases.

A cleavable linkage group, such as a disulfide bond can be susceptible to pH. The pH of human serum is 7.4, while the average intracellular pH is slightly lower, ranging from about 7.1-7.3. Endosomes have a more acidic pH, in the range of 5.5-6.0, and lysosomes have an even more acidic pH at around 5.0. Some linkers will have a cleavable linking group that is cleaved at a preferred pH, thereby releasing the cationic lipid from the ligand inside the cell, or into the desired compartment of the cell.

A linker can include a cleavable linking group that is cleavable by a particular enzyme. The type of cleavable linking group incorporated into a linker can depend on the cell to be targeted. For example, liver targeting ligands can be linked to the cationic lipids through a linker that includes an ester group. Liver cells are rich in esterases, and therefore the linker will be cleaved more efficiently in liver cells than in cell types that are not esterase-rich. Other cell-types rich in esterases include cells of the lung, renal cortex, and testis.

Linkers that contain peptide bonds can be used when targeting cell types rich in peptidases, such as liver cells and synoviocytes.

In general, the suitability of a candidate cleavable linking group can be evaluated by testing the ability of a degradative agent (or condition) to cleave the candidate linking group. It will also be desirable to also test the candidate cleavable linking group for the ability to resist cleavage in the blood or when in contact with other non-target tissue. Thus one can determine the relative susceptibility to cleavage between a first and a second condition, where the first is selected to be indicative of cleavage in a target cell and the second is selected to be indicative of cleavage in other tissues or biological fluids, e.g., blood or serum. The evaluations can be carried out in cell free systems, in cells, in cell culture, in organ or tissue culture, or in whole animals. It may be useful to make initial evaluations in cell-free or culture conditions and to confirm by further evaluations in whole animals. In preferred embodiments, useful candidate compounds are cleaved at least 2, 4, 10 or 100 times faster in the cell (or under in vitro conditions selected to mimic intracellular conditions) as compared to blood or serum (or under in vitro conditions selected to mimic extracellular conditions).

Redox Cleavable Linking Groups

One class of cleavable linking groups are redox cleavable linking groups that are cleaved upon reduction or oxidation. An example of reductively cleavable linking group is a disulphide linking group (—S—S—). To determine if a candidate cleavable linking group is a suitable “reductively cleavable linking group,” or for example is suitable for use with a particular iRNA moiety and particular targeting agent one can look to methods described herein. For example, a candidate can be evaluated by incubation with dithiothreitol (DTT), or other reducing agent using reagents know in the art, which mimic the rate of cleavage which would be observed in a cell, e.g., a target cell. The candidates can also be evaluated under conditions which are selected to mimic blood or serum conditions. In a preferred embodiment, candidate compounds are cleaved by at most 10% in the blood. In preferred embodiments, useful candidate compounds are degraded at least 2, 4, 10 or 100 times faster in the cell (or under in vitro conditions selected to mimic intracellular conditions) as compared to blood (or under in vitro conditions selected to mimic extracellular conditions). The rate of cleavage of candidate compounds can be determined using standard enzyme kinetics assays under conditions chosen to mimic intracellular media and compared to conditions chosen to mimic extracellular media.

Phosphate-Based Cleavable Linking Groups

Phosphate-based cleavable linking groups are cleaved by agents that degrade or hydrolyze the phosphate group. An example of an agent that cleaves phosphate groups in cells are enzymes such as phosphatases in cells. Examples of phosphate-based linking groups are —O—P(O)(ORk)-O—, —O—P(S)(ORk)-O—, —O—P(S)(SRk)-O—, —S—P(O)(ORk)-O—, —O—P(O)(ORk)-S—, —S—P(O)(ORk)-S—, —O—P(S)(ORk)-S—, —S—P(S)(ORk)-O—, —O—P(O)(Rk)-O—, —O—P(S)(Rk)-O—, —S—P(O)(Rk)-O—, —S—P(S)(Rk)-O—, —S—P(O)(Rk)-S—, —O—P(S)(Rk)-S—. Preferred embodiments are —O—P(O)(OH)—O—, —O—P(S)(OH)—O—, —O—P(S)(SH)—O—, —S—P(O)(OH)—O—, —O—P(O)(OH)—S—, —S—P(O)(OH)—S—, —O—P(S)(OH)—S—, —S—P(S)(OH)—O—, —O—P(O)(H)—O—, —O—P(S)(H)—O—, —S—P(O)(H)—O—, —S—P(S)(H)—O—, —S—P(O)(H)—S—, —O—P(S)(H)—S—. A preferred embodiment is —O—P(O)(OH)—O—. These candidates can be evaluated using methods analogous to those described above.

Acid Cleavable Linking Groups

Acid cleavable linking groups are linking groups that are cleaved under acidic conditions. In preferred embodiments acid cleavable linking groups are cleaved in an acidic environment with a pH of about 6.5 or lower (e.g., about 6.0, 5.5, 5.0, or lower), or by agents such as enzymes that can act as a general acid. In a cell, specific low pH organelles, such as endosomes and lysosomes can provide a cleaving environment for acid cleavable linking groups. Examples of acid cleavable linking groups include but are not limited to hydrazones, esters, and esters of amino acids. Acid cleavable groups can have the general formula —C═NN—, C(O)O, or —OC(O). A preferred embodiment is when the carbon attached to the oxygen of the ester (the alkoxy group) is an aryl group, substituted alkyl group, or tertiary alkyl group such as dimethyl pentyl or t-butyl. These candidates can be evaluated using methods analogous to those described above.

Ester-Based Linking Groups

Ester-based cleavable linking groups are cleaved by enzymes such as esterases and amidases in cells. Examples of ester-based cleavable linking groups include but are not limited to esters of alkylene, alkenylene and alkynylene groups. Ester cleavable linking groups have the general formula —C(O)O—, or —OC(O)—. These candidates can be evaluated using methods analogous to those described above.

Peptide-Based Cleaving Groups

Peptide-based cleavable linking groups are cleaved by enzymes such as peptidases and proteases in cells. Peptide-based cleavable linking groups are peptide bonds formed between amino acids to yield oligopeptides (e.g., dipeptides, tripeptides etc.) and polypeptides. Peptide-based cleavable groups do not include the amide group (—C(O)NH—). The amide group can be formed between any alkylene, alkenylene or alkynelene. A peptide bond is a special type of amide bond formed between amino acids to yield peptides and proteins. The peptide based cleavage group is generally limited to the peptide bond (i.e., the amide bond) formed between amino acids yielding peptides and proteins and does not include the entire amide functional group. Peptide-based cleavable linking groups have the general formula —NHCHR^(A)C(O)NHCHR^(B)C(O)— (SEQ ID NO: 1107), where R^(A) and R^(B) are the R groups of the two adjacent amino acids. These candidates can be evaluated using methods analogous to those described above.

Representative carbohydrate conjugates with linkers include, but are not limited to,

when one of X or Y is an oligonucleotide, the other is a hydrogen.

Representative U.S. patents that teach the preparation of RNA conjugates include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,828,979; 4,948,882; 5,218,105; 5,525,465; 5,541,313; 5,545,730; 5,552,538; 5,578,717, 5,580,731; 5,591,584; 5,109,124; 5,118,802; 5,138,045; 5,414,077; 5,486,603; 5,512,439; 5,578,718; 5,608,046; 4,587,044; 4,605,735; 4,667,025; 4,762,779; 4,789,737; 4,824,941; 4,835,263; 4,876,335; 4,904,582; 4,958,013; 5,082,830; 5,112,963; 5,214,136; 5,082,830; 5,112,963; 5,214,136; 5,245,022; 5,254,469; 5,258,506; 5,262,536; 5,272,250; 5,292,873; 5,317,098; 5,371,241, 5,391,723; 5,416,203, 5,451,463; 5,510,475; 5,512,667; 5,514,785; 5,565,552; 5,567,810; 5,574,142; 5,585,481; 5,587,371; 5,595,726; 5,597,696; 5,599,923; 5,599,928 and 5,688,941; 6,294,664; 6,320,017; 6,576,752; 6,783,931; 6,900,297; 7,037,646; each of which is herein incorporated by reference.

It is not necessary for all positions in a given compound to be uniformly modified, and in fact more than one of the aforementioned modifications can be incorporated in a single compound or even at a single nucleoside within an iRNA. The present invention also includes iRNA compounds that are chimeric compounds. “Chimeric” iRNA compounds or “chimeras,” in the context of this invention, are iRNA compounds, preferably dsRNAs, which contain two or more chemically distinct regions, each made up of at least one monomer unit, i.e., a nucleotide in the case of a dsRNA compound. These iRNAs typically contain at least one region wherein the RNA is modified so as to confer upon the iRNA increased resistance to nuclease degradation, increased cellular uptake, and/or increased binding affinity for the target nucleic acid. An additional region of the iRNA may serve as a substrate for enzymes capable of cleaving RNA:DNA or RNA:RNA hybrids. By way of example, RNase H is a cellular endonuclease which cleaves the RNA strand of an RNA:DNA duplex. Activation of RNase H, therefore, results in cleavage of the RNA target, thereby greatly enhancing the efficiency of iRNA inhibition of gene expression. Consequently, comparable results can often be obtained with shorter iRNAs when chimeric dsRNAs are used, compared to phosphorothioate deoxy dsRNAs hybridizing to the same target region. Cleavage of the RNA target can be routinely detected by gel electrophoresis and, if necessary, associated nucleic acid hybridization techniques known in the art.

In certain instances, the RNA of an iRNA can be modified by a non-ligand group. A number of non-ligand molecules have been conjugated to iRNAs in order to enhance the activity, cellular distribution or cellular uptake of the iRNA, and procedures for performing such conjugations are available in the scientific literature. Such non-ligand moieties have included lipid moieties, such as cholesterol (Kubo, T. et al., Biochem. Biophys. Res. Comm., 2007, 365(1):54-61; Letsinger et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 1989, 86:6553), cholic acid (Manoharan et al., Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett., 1994, 4:1053), a thioether, e.g., hexyl-S-tritylthiol (Manoharan et al., Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci., 1992, 660:306; Manoharan et al., Bioorg. Med. Chem. Let., 1993, 3:2765), a thiocholesterol (Oberhauser et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 1992, 20:533), an aliphatic chain, e.g., dodecandiol or undecyl residues (Saison-Behmoaras et al., EMBO J., 1991, 10:111; Kabanov et al., FEBS Lett., 1990, 259:327; Svinarchuk et al., Biochimie, 1993, 75:49), a phospholipid, e.g., di-hexadecyl-rac-glycerol or triethylammonium 1,2-di-O-hexadecyl-rac-glycero-3-H-phosphonate (Manoharan et al., Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651; Shea et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 1990, 18:3777), a polyamine or a polyethylene glycol chain (Manoharan et al., Nucleosides & Nucleotides, 1995, 14:969), or adamantane acetic acid (Manoharan et al., Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36:3651), a palmityl moiety (Mishra et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta, 1995, 1264:229), or an octadecylamine or hexylamino-carbonyl-oxycholesterol moiety (Crooke et al., J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther., 1996, 277:923). Representative United States patents that teach the preparation of such RNA conjugates have been listed above. Typical conjugation protocols involve the synthesis of an RNAs bearing an aminolinker at one or more positions of the sequence. The amino group is then reacted with the molecule being conjugated using appropriate coupling or activating reagents. The conjugation reaction may be performed either with the RNA still bound to the solid support or following cleavage of the RNA, in solution phase. Purification of the RNA conjugate by HPLC typically affords the pure conjugate.

Delivery of iRNA

The delivery of an iRNA to a subject in need thereof can be achieved in a number of different ways. In vivo delivery can be performed directly by administering a composition comprising an iRNA, e.g. a dsRNA, to a subject. Alternatively, delivery can be performed indirectly by administering one or more vectors that encode and direct the expression of the iRNA.

Direct Delivery of an iRNA Composition

In general, any method of delivering a nucleic acid molecule can be adapted for use with an iRNA (see e.g., Akhtar S. and Julian R L. (1992) Trends Cell. Biol. 2(5):139-144 and WO94/02595, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties). However, there are three factors that are important to consider in order to successfully deliver an iRNA molecule in vivo: (a) biological stability of the delivered molecule, (2) preventing non-specific effects, and (3) accumulation of the delivered molecule in the target tissue. The non-specific effects of an iRNA can be minimized by local administration, for example by direct injection or implantation into a tissue (as a non-limiting example, a tumor) or topically administering the preparation. Local administration to a treatment site maximizes local concentration of the agent, limits the exposure of the agent to systemic tissues that may otherwise be harmed by the agent or that may degrade the agent, and permits a lower total dose of the iRNA molecule to be administered. Several studies have shown successful knockdown of gene products when an iRNA is administered locally. For example, intraocular delivery of a VEGF dsRNA by intravitreal injection in cynomolgus monkeys (Tolentino, M J., et al (2004) Retina 24:132-138) and subretinal injections in mice (Reich, S J., et al (2003) Mol. Vis. 9:210-216) were both shown to prevent neovascularization in an experimental model of age-related macular degeneration. In addition, direct intratumoral injection of a dsRNA in mice reduces tumor volume (Pille, J., et al (2005) Mol. Ther. 11:267-274) and can prolong survival of tumor-bearing mice (Kim, W J., et al (2006) Mol. Ther. 14:343-350; Li, S., et al (2007) Mol. Ther. 15:515-523). RNA interference has also shown success with local delivery to the CNS by direct injection (Dorn, G., et al. (2004) Nucleic Acids 32:e49; Tan, P H., et al (2005) Gene Ther. 12:59-66; Makimura, H., et al (2002) BMC Neurosci. 3:18; Shishkina, G T., et al (2004) Neuroscience 129:521-528; Thakker, E R., et al (2004) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 101:17270-17275; Akaneya, Y., et al (2005) J. Neurophysiol. 93:594-602) and to the lungs by intranasal administration (Howard, K A., et al (2006) Mol. Ther. 14:476-484; Zhang, X., et al (2004) J. Biol. Chem. 279:10677-10684; Bitko, V., et al (2005) Nat. Med. 11:50-55). For administering an iRNA systemically for the treatment of a disease, the RNA can be modified or alternatively delivered using a drug delivery system; both methods act to prevent the rapid degradation of the dsRNA by endo- and exo-nucleases in vivo. Modification of the RNA or the pharmaceutical carrier can also permit targeting of the iRNA composition to the target tissue and avoid undesirable off-target effects. iRNA molecules can be modified by chemical conjugation to lipophilic groups such as cholesterol to enhance cellular uptake and prevent degradation. For example, an iRNA directed against ApoB conjugated to a lipophilic cholesterol moiety was injected systemically into mice and resulted in knockdown of apoB mRNA in both the liver and jejunum (Soutschek, J., et al (2004) Nature 432:173-178). Conjugation of an iRNA to an aptamer has been shown to inhibit tumor growth and mediate tumor regression in a mouse model of prostate cancer (McNamara, J O., et al (2006) Nat. Biotechnol. 24:1005-1015). In an alternative embodiment, the iRNA can be delivered using drug delivery systems such as a nanoparticle, a dendrimer, a polymer, liposomes, or a cationic delivery system. Positively charged cationic delivery systems facilitate binding of an iRNA molecule (negatively charged) and also enhance interactions at the negatively charged cell membrane to permit efficient uptake of an iRNA by the cell. Cationic lipids, dendrimers, or polymers can either be bound to an iRNA, or induced to form a vesicle or micelle (see e.g., Kim SH., et al (2008) Journal of Controlled Release 129(2):107-116) that encases an iRNA. The formation of vesicles or micelles further prevents degradation of the iRNA when administered systemically. Methods for making and administering cationic-iRNA complexes are well within the abilities of one skilled in the art (see e.g., Sorensen, D R., et al (2003) J. Mol. Biol 327:761-766; Verma, U N., et al (2003) Clin. Cancer Res. 9:1291-1300; Arnold, A S et al (2007) J. Hypertens. 25:197-205, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety). Some non-limiting examples of drug delivery systems useful for systemic delivery of iRNAs include DOTAP (Sorensen, D R., et al (2003), supra; Verma, U N., et al (2003), supra), Oligofectamine, “solid nucleic acid lipid particles” (Zimmermann, T S., et al (2006) Nature 441:111-114), cardiolipin (Chien, P Y., et al (2005) Cancer Gene Ther. 12:321-328; Pal, A., et al (2005) Int J. Oncol. 26:1087-1091), polyethyleneimine (Bonnet M E., et al (2008) Pharm. Res. August 16 Epub ahead of print; Aigner, A. (2006) J. Biomed. Biotechnol. 71659), Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) peptides (Liu, S. (2006) Mol. Pharm. 3:472-487), and polyamidoamines (Tomalia, D A., et al (2007) Biochem. Soc. Trans. 35:61-67; Yoo, H., et al (1999) Pharm. Res. 16:1799-1804). In some embodiments, an iRNA forms a complex with cyclodextrin for systemic administration. Methods for administration and pharmaceutical compositions of iRNAs and cyclodextrins can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,427,605, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Vector Encoded dsRNAs

In another aspect, iRNA targeting the Mylip/Idol gene can be expressed from transcription units inserted into DNA or RNA vectors (see, e.g., Couture, A, et al., TIG. (1996), 12:5-10; Skillern, A., et al., International PCT Publication No. WO 00/22113, Conrad, PCT Publication No. WO 00/22114, and Conrad, U.S. Pat. No. 6,054,299). Expression can be transient (on the order of hours to weeks) or sustained (weeks to months or longer), depending upon the specific construct used and the target tissue or cell type. These transgenes can be introduced as a linear construct, a circular plasmid, or a viral vector, which can be an integrating or non-integrating vector. The transgene can also be constructed to permit it to be inherited as an extrachromosomal plasmid (Gassmann, et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA (1995) 92:1292).

The individual strand or strands of an iRNA can be transcribed from a promoter on an expression vector. Where two separate strands are to be expressed to generate, for example, a dsRNA, two separate expression vectors can be co-introduced (e.g., by transfection or infection) into a target cell. Alternatively each individual strand of a dsRNA can be transcribed by promoters both of which are located on the same expression plasmid. In one embodiment, a dsRNA is expressed as inverted repeat polynueclotides joined by a linker polynucleotide sequence such that the dsRNA has a stem and loop structure.

iRNA expression vectors are generally DNA plasmids or viral vectors. Expression vectors compatible with eukaryotic cells, preferably those compatible with vertebrate cells, can be used to produce recombinant constructs for the expression of an iRNA as described herein. Eukaryotic cell expression vectors are well known in the art and are available from a number of commercial sources. Typically, such vectors are provided containing convenient restriction sites for insertion of the desired nucleic acid segment. Delivery of iRNA expressing vectors can be systemic, such as by intravenous or intramuscular administration, by administration to target cells ex-planted from the patient followed by reintroduction into the patient, or by any other means that allows for introduction into a desired target cell.

iRNA expression plasmids can be transfected into target cells as a complex with cationic lipid carriers (e.g., Oligofectamine) or non-cationic lipid-based carriers (e.g., Transit-TKO™). Multiple lipid transfections for iRNA-mediated knockdowns targeting different regions of a target RNA over a period of a week or more are also contemplated by the invention. Successful introduction of vectors into host cells can be monitored using various known methods. For example, transient transfection can be signaled with a reporter, such as a fluorescent marker, such as Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP). Stable transfection of cells ex vivo can be ensured using markers that provide the transfected cell with resistance to specific environmental factors (e.g., antibiotics and drugs), such as hygromycin B resistance.

Viral vector systems which can be utilized with the methods and compositions described herein include, but are not limited to, (a) adenovirus vectors; (b) retrovirus vectors, including but not limited to lentiviral vectors, moloney murine leukemia virus, etc.; (c) adeno-associated virus vectors; (d) herpes simplex virus vectors; (e) SV 40 vectors; (f) polyoma virus vectors; (g) papilloma virus vectors; (h) picornavirus vectors; (i) pox virus vectors such as an orthopox, e.g., vaccinia virus vectors or avipox, e.g. canary pox or fowl pox; and (j) a helper-dependent or gutless adenovirus. Replication-defective viruses can also be advantageous. Different vectors will or will not become incorporated into the cells' genome. The constructs can include viral sequences for transfection, if desired. Alternatively, the construct may be incorporated into vectors capable of episomal replication, e.g. EPV and EBV vectors. Constructs for the recombinant expression of an iRNA will generally require regulatory elements, e.g., promoters, enhancers, etc., to ensure the expression of the iRNA in target cells. Other aspects to consider for vectors and constructs are further described below.

Vectors useful for the delivery of an iRNA will include regulatory elements (promoter, enhancer, etc.) sufficient for expression of the iRNA in the desired target cell or tissue. The regulatory elements can be chosen to provide either constitutive or regulated/inducible expression.

Expression of the iRNA can be precisely regulated, for example, by using an inducible regulatory sequence that is sensitive to certain physiological regulators, e.g., circulating glucose levels, or hormones (Docherty et al., 1994, FASEB J. 8:20-24). Such inducible expression systems, suitable for the control of dsRNA expression in cells or in mammals include, for example, regulation by ecdysone, by estrogen, progesterone, tetracycline, chemical inducers of dimerization, and isopropyl-beta-D1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). A person skilled in the art would be able to choose the appropriate regulatory/promoter sequence based on the intended use of the iRNA transgene.

In a specific embodiment, viral vectors that contain nucleic acid sequences encoding an iRNA can be used. For example, a retroviral vector can be used (see Miller et al., Meth. Enzymol. 217:581-599 (1993)). These retroviral vectors contain the components necessary for the correct packaging of the viral genome and integration into the host cell DNA. The nucleic acid sequences encoding an iRNA are cloned into one or more vectors, which facilitates delivery of the nucleic acid into a patient. More detail about retroviral vectors can be found, for example, in Boesen et al., Biotherapy 6:291-302 (1994), which describes the use of a retroviral vector to deliver the mdr1 gene to hematopoietic stem cells in order to make the stem cells more resistant to chemotherapy. Other references illustrating the use of retroviral vectors in gene therapy are: Clowes et al., J. Clin. Invest. 93:644-651 (1994); Kiem et al., Blood 83:1467-1473 (1994); Salmons and Gunzberg, Human Gene Therapy 4:129-141 (1993); and Grossman and Wilson, Curr. Opin. in Genetics and Devel. 3:110-114 (1993). Lentiviral vectors contemplated for use include, for example, the HIV based vectors described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,143,520; 5,665,557; and 5,981,276, which are herein incorporated by reference.

Adenoviruses are also contemplated for use in delivery of iRNAs. Adenoviruses are especially attractive vehicles, e.g., for delivering genes to respiratory epithelia. Adenoviruses naturally infect respiratory epithelia where they cause a mild disease. Other targets for adenovirus-based delivery systems are liver, the central nervous system, endothelial cells, and muscle. Adenoviruses have the advantage of being capable of infecting non-dividing cells. Kozarsky and Wilson, Current Opinion in Genetics and Development 3:499-503 (1993) present a review of adenovirus-based gene therapy. Bout et al., Human Gene Therapy 5:3-10 (1994) demonstrated the use of adenovirus vectors to transfer genes to the respiratory epithelia of rhesus monkeys. Other instances of the use of adenoviruses in gene therapy can be found in Rosenfeld et al., Science 252:431-434 (1991); Rosenfeld et al., Cell 68:143-155 (1992); Mastrangeli et al., J. Clin. Invest. 91:225-234 (1993); PCT Publication WO94/12649; and Wang, et al., Gene Therapy 2:775-783 (1995). A suitable AV vector for expressing an iRNA featured in the invention, a method for constructing the recombinant AV vector, and a method for delivering the vector into target cells, are described in Xia H et al. (2002), Nat. Biotech. 20: 1006-1010.

Use of Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors is also contemplated (Walsh et al., Proc. Soc. Exp. Biol. Med. 204:289-300 (1993); U.S. Pat. No. 5,436,146). In one embodiment, the iRNA can be expressed as two separate, complementary single-stranded RNA molecules from a recombinant AAV vector having, for example, either the U6 or H1 RNA promoters, or the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter. Suitable AAV vectors for expressing the dsRNA featured in the invention, methods for constructing the recombinant AV vector, and methods for delivering the vectors into target cells are described in Samulski R et al. (1987), J. Virol. 61: 3096-3101; Fisher K J et al. (1996), J. Virol, 70: 520-532; Samulski R et al. (1989), J. Virol. 63: 3822-3826; U.S. Pat. No. 5,252,479; U.S. Pat. No. 5,139,941; International Patent Application No. WO 94/13788; and International Patent Application No. WO 93/24641, the entire disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

Another preferred viral vector is a pox virus such as a vaccinia virus, for example an attenuated vaccinia such as Modified Virus Ankara (MVA) or NYVAC, an avipox such as fowl pox or canary pox.

The tropism of viral vectors can be modified by pseudotyping the vectors with envelope proteins or other surface antigens from other viruses, or by substituting different viral capsid proteins, as appropriate. For example, lentiviral vectors can be pseudotyped with surface proteins from vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), rabies, Ebola, Mokola, and the like. AAV vectors can be made to target different cells by engineering the vectors to express different capsid protein serotypes; see, e.g., Rabinowitz J E et al. (2002), J Virol 76:791-801, the entire disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.

The pharmaceutical preparation of a vector can include the vector in an acceptable diluent, or can include a slow release matrix in which the gene delivery vehicle is imbedded. Alternatively, where the complete gene delivery vector can be produced intact from recombinant cells, e.g., retroviral vectors, the pharmaceutical preparation can include one or more cells which produce the gene delivery system.

III. PHARMACEUTICAL COMPOSITIONS CONTAINING IRNA

In one embodiment, provided herein are pharmaceutical compositions containing an iRNA and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The pharmaceutical composition containing the iRNA is useful for treating a disease or disorder associated with the expression or activity of a Mylip/Idol gene, such as pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression. Such pharmaceutical compositions are formulated based on the mode of delivery. One example is compositions that are formulated for systemic administration via parenteral delivery, e.g., by intravenous (IV) delivery. Another example is compositions that are formulated for direct delivery into the brain parenchyma, e.g., by infusion into the brain, such as by continuous pump infusion.

The pharmaceutical compositions featured herein are administered in dosages sufficient to inhibit expression of Mylip/Idol genes. In general, a suitable dose of iRNA will be in the range of 0.01 to 200.0 milligrams per kilogram body weight of the recipient per day, generally in the range of 1 to 50 mg per kilogram body weight per day. For example, the dsRNA can be administered at 0.05 mg/kg, 0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg, or 50 mg/kg per single dose. The pharmaceutical composition may be administered once daily, or the iRNA may be administered as two, three, or more sub-doses at appropriate intervals throughout the day or even using continuous infusion or delivery through a controlled release formulation. In that case, the iRNA contained in each sub-dose must be correspondingly smaller in order to achieve the total daily dosage. The dosage unit can also be compounded for delivery over several days, e.g., using a conventional sustained release formulation which provides sustained release of the iRNA over a several day period. Sustained release formulations are well known in the art and are particularly useful for delivery of agents at a particular site, such as could be used with the agents of the present invention. In this embodiment, the dosage unit contains a corresponding multiple of the daily dose.

The effect of a single dose on Mylip/Idol levels can be long lasting, such that subsequent doses are administered at not more than 3, 4, or 5 day intervals, or at not more than 1, 2, 3, or 4 week intervals.

The skilled artisan will appreciate that certain factors may influence the dosage and timing required to effectively treat a subject, including but not limited to the severity of the disease or disorder, previous treatments, the general health and/or age of the subject, and other diseases present. Moreover, treatment of a subject with a therapeutically effective amount of a composition can include a single treatment or a series of treatments. Estimates of effective dosages and in vivo half-lives for the individual iRNAs encompassed by the invention can be made using conventional methodologies or on the basis of in vivo testing using an appropriate animal model, as described elsewhere herein.

Advances in mouse genetics have generated a number of mouse models for the study of various human diseases, such as pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression. Such models can be used for in vivo testing of iRNA, as well as for determining a therapeutically effective dose. A suitable mouse model is, for example, a mouse containing a transgene expressing human Mylip/Idol.

The present invention also includes pharmaceutical compositions and formulations that include the iRNA compounds featured in the invention. The pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention may be administered in a number of ways depending upon whether local or systemic treatment is desired and upon the area to be treated. Administration may be topical (e.g., by a transdermal patch), pulmonary, e.g., by inhalation or insufflation of powders or aerosols, including by nebulizer; intratracheal, intranasal, epidermal and transdermal, oral or parenteral. Parenteral administration includes intravenous, intraarterial, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal or intramuscular injection or infusion; subdermal, e.g., via an implanted device; or intracranial, e.g., by intraparenchymal, intrathecal or intraventricular, administration.

The iRNA can be delivered in a manner to target a particular tissue, such as the liver (e.g., the hepatocytes of the liver).

Pharmaceutical compositions and formulations for topical administration may include transdermal patches, ointments, lotions, creams, gels, drops, suppositories, sprays, liquids and powders. Conventional pharmaceutical carriers, aqueous, powder or oily bases, thickeners and the like may be necessary or desirable. Coated condoms, gloves and the like may also be useful. Suitable topical formulations include those in which the iRNAs featured in the invention are in admixture with a topical delivery agent such as lipids, liposomes, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, steroids, chelating agents and surfactants. Suitable lipids and liposomes include neutral (e.g., dioleoylphosphatidyl DOPE ethanolamine, dimyristoylphosphatidyl choline DMPC, distearolyphosphatidyl choline) negative (e.g., dimyristoylphosphatidyl glycerol DMPG) and cationic (e.g., dioleoyltetramethylaminopropyl DOTAP and dioleoylphosphatidyl ethanolamine DOTMA). iRNAs featured in the invention may be encapsulated within liposomes or may form complexes thereto, in particular to cationic liposomes. Alternatively, iRNAs may be complexed to lipids, in particular to cationic lipids. Suitable fatty acids and esters include but are not limited to arachidonic acid, oleic acid, eicosanoic acid, lauric acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, dicaprate, tricaprate, monoolein, dilaurin, glyceryl 1-monocaprate, 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, an acylcarnitine, an acylcholine, or a C₁₋₂₀ alkyl ester (e.g., isopropylmyristate IPM), monoglyceride, diglyceride or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Topical formulations are described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,014, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Liposomal Formulations

There are many organized surfactant structures besides microemulsions that have been studied and used for the formulation of drugs. These include monolayers, micelles, bilayers and vesicles. Vesicles, such as liposomes, have attracted great interest because of their specificity and the duration of action they offer from the standpoint of drug delivery. As used in the present invention, the term “liposome” means a vesicle composed of amphiphilic lipids arranged in a spherical bilayer or bilayers.

Liposomes are unilamellar or multilamellar vesicles which have a membrane formed from a lipophilic material and an aqueous interior. The aqueous portion contains the composition to be delivered. Cationic liposomes possess the advantage of being able to fuse to the cell wall. Non-cationic liposomes, although not able to fuse as efficiently with the cell wall, are taken up by macrophages in vivo.

In order to traverse intact mammalian skin, lipid vesicles must pass through a series of fine pores, each with a diameter less than 50 nm, under the influence of a suitable transdermal gradient. Therefore, it is desirable to use a liposome which is highly deformable and able to pass through such fine pores.

Further advantages of liposomes include; liposomes obtained from natural phospholipids are biocompatible and biodegradable; liposomes can incorporate a wide range of water and lipid soluble drugs; liposomes can protect encapsulated drugs in their internal compartments from metabolism and degradation (Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245). Important considerations in the preparation of liposome formulations are the lipid surface charge, vesicle size and the aqueous volume of the liposomes.

Liposomes are useful for the transfer and delivery of active ingredients to the site of action. Because the liposomal membrane is structurally similar to biological membranes, when liposomes are applied to a tissue, the liposomes start to merge with the cellular membranes and as the merging of the liposome and cell progresses, the liposomal contents are emptied into the cell where the active agent may act.

Liposomal formulations have been the focus of extensive investigation as the mode of delivery for many drugs. There is growing evidence that for topical administration, liposomes present several advantages over other formulations. Such advantages include reduced side-effects related to high systemic absorption of the administered drug, increased accumulation of the administered drug at the desired target, and the ability to administer a wide variety of drugs, both hydrophilic and hydrophobic, into the skin.

Several reports have detailed the ability of liposomes to deliver agents including high-molecular weight DNA into the skin. Compounds including analgesics, antibodies, hormones and high-molecular weight DNAs have been administered to the skin. The majority of applications resulted in the targeting of the upper epidermis

Liposomes fall into two broad classes. Cationic liposomes are positively charged liposomes which interact with the negatively charged DNA molecules to form a stable complex. The positively charged DNA/liposome complex binds to the negatively charged cell surface and is internalized in an endosome. Due to the acidic pH within the endosome, the liposomes are ruptured, releasing their contents into the cell cytoplasm (Wang et al., Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun., 1987, 147, 980-985).

Liposomes which are pH-sensitive or negatively-charged, entrap nucleic acids rather than complex with it. Since both the DNA and the lipid are similarly charged, repulsion rather than complex formation occurs. Nevertheless, some DNA is entrapped within the aqueous interior of these liposomes. pH-sensitive liposomes have been used to deliver nucleic acids encoding the thymidine kinase gene to cell monolayers in culture. Expression of the exogenous gene was detected in the target cells (Zhou et al., Journal of Controlled Release, 1992, 19, 269-274).

One major type of liposomal composition includes phospholipids other than naturally-derived phosphatidylcholine. Neutral liposome compositions, for example, can be formed from dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine (DMPC) or dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC). Anionic liposome compositions generally are formed from dimyristoyl phosphatidylglycerol, while anionic fusogenic liposomes are formed primarily from dioleoyl phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE). Another type of liposomal composition is formed from phosphatidylcholine (PC) such as, for example, soybean PC, and egg PC. Another type is formed from mixtures of phospholipid and/or phosphatidylcholine and/or cholesterol.

Several studies have assessed the topical delivery of liposomal drug formulations to the skin. Application of liposomes containing interferon to guinea pig skin resulted in a reduction of skin herpes sores while delivery of interferon via other means (e.g., as a solution or as an emulsion) were ineffective (Weiner et al., Journal of Drug Targeting, 1992, 2, 405-410). Further, an additional study tested the efficacy of interferon administered as part of a liposomal formulation to the administration of interferon using an aqueous system, and concluded that the liposomal formulation was superior to aqueous administration (du Plessis et al., Antiviral Research, 1992, 18, 259-265).

Non-ionic liposomal systems have also been examined to determine their utility in the delivery of drugs to the skin, in particular systems comprising non-ionic surfactant and cholesterol. Non-ionic liposomal formulations comprising Novasome™ I (glyceryl dilaurate/cholesterol/polyoxyethylene-10-stearyl ether) and Novasome™ II (glyceryl distearate/cholesterol/polyoxyethylene-10-stearyl ether) were used to deliver cyclosporin-A into the dermis of mouse skin. Results indicated that such non-ionic liposomal systems were effective in facilitating the deposition of cyclosporine A into different layers of the skin (Hu et al. S. T. P. Pharma. Sci., 1994, 4, 6, 466).

Liposomes also include “sterically stabilized” liposomes, a term which, as used herein, refers to liposomes comprising one or more specialized lipids that, when incorporated into liposomes, result in enhanced circulation lifetimes relative to liposomes lacking such specialized lipids. Examples of sterically stabilized liposomes are those in which part of the vesicle-forming lipid portion of the liposome (A) comprises one or more glycolipids, such as monosialoganglioside G_(M1), or (B) is derivatized with one or more hydrophilic polymers, such as a polyethylene glycol (PEG) moiety. While not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is thought in the art that, at least for sterically stabilized liposomes containing gangliosides, sphingomyelin, or PEG-derivatized lipids, the enhanced circulation half-life of these sterically stabilized liposomes derives from a reduced uptake into cells of the reticuloendothelial system (RES) (Allen et al., FEBS Letters, 1987, 223, 42; Wu et al., Cancer Research, 1993, 53, 3765).

Various liposomes comprising one or more glycolipids are known in the art. Papahadjopoulos et al. (Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci., 1987, 507, 64) reported the ability of monosialoganglioside G_(M1), galactocerebroside sulfate and phosphatidylinositol to improve blood half-lives of liposomes. These findings were expounded upon by Gabizon et al. (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A., 1988, 85, 6949). U.S. Pat. No. 4,837,028 and WO 88/04924, both to Allen et al., disclose liposomes comprising (1) sphingomyelin and (2) the ganglioside G_(M1) or a galactocerebroside sulfate ester. U.S. Pat. No. 5,543,152 (Webb et al.) discloses liposomes comprising sphingomyelin. Liposomes comprising 1,2-sn-dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine are disclosed in WO 97/13499 (Lim et al).

Many liposomes comprising lipids derivatized with one or more hydrophilic polymers, and methods of preparation thereof, are known in the art. Sunamoto et al. (Bull. Chem. Soc. Jpn., 1980, 53, 2778) described liposomes comprising a nonionic detergent, 2C_(1215G), that contains a PEG moiety. Illum et al. (FEBS Lett., 1984, 167, 79) noted that hydrophilic coating of polystyrene particles with polymeric glycols results in significantly enhanced blood half-lives. Synthetic phospholipids modified by the attachment of carboxylic groups of polyalkylene glycols (e.g., PEG) are described by Sears (U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,426,330 and 4,534,899). Klibanov et al. (FEBS Lett., 1990, 268, 235) described experiments demonstrating that liposomes comprising phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) derivatized with PEG or PEG stearate have significant increases in blood circulation half-lives. Blume et al. (Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, 1990, 1029, 91) extended such observations to other PEG-derivatized phospholipids, e.g., DSPE-PEG, formed from the combination of distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DSPE) and PEG. Liposomes having covalently bound PEG moieties on their external surface are described in European Patent No. EP 0 445 131 B1 and WO 90/04384 to Fisher. Liposome compositions containing 1-20 mole percent of PE derivatized with PEG, and methods of use thereof, are described by Woodle et al. (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,013,556 and 5,356,633) and Martin et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 5,213,804 and European Patent No. EP 0 496 813 B1). Liposomes comprising a number of other lipid-polymer conjugates are disclosed in WO 91/05545 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,225,212 (both to Martin et al.) and in WO 94/20073 (Zalipsky et al.) Liposomes comprising PEG-modified ceramide lipids are described in WO 96/10391 (Choi et al). U.S. Pat. No. 5,540,935 (Miyazaki et al.) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,556,948 (Tagawa et al.) describes PEG-containing liposomes that can be further derivatized with functional moieties on their surfaces.

A number of liposomes comprising nucleic acids are known in the art. WO 96/40062 to Thierry et al. discloses methods for encapsulating high molecular weight nucleic acids in liposomes. U.S. Pat. No. 5,264,221 to Tagawa et al. discloses protein-bonded liposomes and asserts that the contents of such liposomes may include a dsRNA. U.S. Pat. No. 5,665,710 to Rahman et al. describes certain methods of encapsulating oligodeoxynucleotides in liposomes. WO 97/04787 to Love et al. discloses liposomes comprising dsRNAs targeted to the raf gene.

Transfersomes are yet another type of liposomes, and are highly deformable lipid aggregates which are attractive candidates for drug delivery vehicles. Transfersomes may be described as lipid droplets which are so highly deformable that they are easily able to penetrate through pores which are smaller than the droplet. Transfersomes are adaptable to the environment in which they are used, e.g., they are self-optimizing (adaptive to the shape of pores in the skin), self-repairing, frequently reach their targets without fragmenting, and often self-loading. To make transfersomes it is possible to add surface edge-activators, usually surfactants, to a standard liposomal composition. Transfersomes have been used to deliver serum albumin to the skin. The transfersome-mediated delivery of serum albumin has been shown to be as effective as subcutaneous injection of a solution containing serum albumin.

Surfactants find wide application in formulations such as emulsions (including microemulsions) and liposomes. The most common way of classifying and ranking the properties of the many different types of surfactants, both natural and synthetic, is by the use of the hydrophile/lipophile balance (HLB). The nature of the hydrophilic group (also known as the “head”) provides the most useful means for categorizing the different surfactants used in formulations (Rieger, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., 1988, p. 285).

If the surfactant molecule is not ionized, it is classified as a nonionic surfactant. Nonionic surfactants find wide application in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products and are usable over a wide range of pH values. In general their HLB values range from 2 to about 18 depending on their structure. Nonionic surfactants include nonionic esters such as ethylene glycol esters, propylene glycol esters, glyceryl esters, polyglyceryl esters, sorbitan esters, sucrose esters, and ethoxylated esters. Nonionic alkanolamides and ethers such as fatty alcohol ethoxylates, propoxylated alcohols, and ethoxylated/propoxylated block polymers are also included in this class. The polyoxyethylene surfactants are the most popular members of the nonionic surfactant class.

If the surfactant molecule carries a negative charge when it is dissolved or dispersed in water, the surfactant is classified as anionic. Anionic surfactants include carboxylates such as soaps, acyl lactylates, acyl amides of amino acids, esters of sulfuric acid such as alkyl sulfates and ethoxylated alkyl sulfates, sulfonates such as alkyl benzene sulfonates, acyl isethionates, acyl taurates and sulfosuccinates, and phosphates. The most important members of the anionic surfactant class are the alkyl sulfates and the soaps.

If the surfactant molecule carries a positive charge when it is dissolved or dispersed in water, the surfactant is classified as cationic. Cationic surfactants include quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated amines. The quaternary ammonium salts are the most used members of this class.

If the surfactant molecule has the ability to carry either a positive or negative charge, the surfactant is classified as amphoteric. Amphoteric surfactants include acrylic acid derivatives, substituted alkylamides, N-alkylbetaines and phosphatides.

The use of surfactants in drug products, formulations and in emulsions has been reviewed (Rieger, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., 1988, p. 285).

Nucleic Acid Lipid Particles

In one embodiment, an Idol/Mylip dsRNA featured in the invention is fully encapsulated in the lipid formulation, e.g., to form a SPLP, pSPLP, SNALP, or other nucleic acid-lipid particle. As used herein, the term “SNALP” refers to a stable nucleic acid-lipid particle, including SPLP. As used herein, the term “SPLP” refers to a nucleic acid-lipid particle comprising plasmid DNA encapsulated within a lipid vesicle. SNALPs and SPLPs typically contain a cationic lipid, a non-cationic lipid, and a lipid that prevents aggregation of the particle (e.g., a PEG-lipid conjugate). SNALPs and SPLPs are extremely useful for systemic applications, as they exhibit extended circulation lifetimes following intravenous (i.v.) injection and accumulate at distal sites (e.g., sites physically separated from the administration site). SPLPs include “pSPLP,” which include an encapsulated condensing agent-nucleic acid complex as set forth in PCT Publication No. WO 00/03683. The particles of the present invention typically have a mean diameter of about 50 nm to about 150 nm, more typically about 60 nm to about 130 nm, more typically about 70 nm to about 110 nm, most typically about 70 nm to about 90 nm, and are substantially nontoxic. In addition, the nucleic acids when present in the nucleic acid-lipid particles of the present invention are resistant in aqueous solution to degradation with a nuclease. Nucleic acid-lipid particles and their method of preparation are disclosed in, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,976,567; 5,981,501; 6,534,484; 6,586,410; 6,815,432; and PCT Publication No. WO 96/40964.

In one embodiment, the lipid to drug ratio (mass/mass ratio) (e.g., lipid to dsRNA ratio) will be in the range of from about 1:1 to about 50:1, from about 1:1 to about 25:1, from about 3:1 to about 15:1, from about 4:1 to about 10:1, from about 5:1 to about 9:1, or about 6:1 to about 9:1.

The cationic lipid can be, for example, N,N-dioleyl-N,N-dimethylammonium chloride (DODAC), N,N-distearyl-N,N-dimethylammonium bromide (DDAB), N-(I-(2,3-dioleoyloxy)propyl)-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (DOTAP), N-(I-(2,3-dioleyloxy)propyl)-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (DOTMA), N,N-dimethyl-2,3-dioleyloxy)propylamine (DODMA), 1,2-DiLinoleyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA), 1,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLenDMA), 1,2-Dilinoleylcarbamoyloxy-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLin-C-DAP), 1,2-Dilinoleyoxy-3-(dimethylamino)acetoxypropane (DLin-DAC), 1,2-Dilinoleyoxy-3-morpholinopropane (DLin-MA), 1,2-Dilinoleoyl-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDAP), 1,2-Dilinoleylthio-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLin-S-DMA), 1-Linoleoyl-2-linoleyloxy-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLin-2-DMAP), 1,2-Dilinoleyloxy-3-trimethylaminopropane chloride salt (DLin-TMA.Cl), 1,2-Dilinoleoyl-3-trimethylaminopropane chloride salt (DLin-TAP.Cl), 1,2-Dilinoleyloxy-3-(N-methylpiperazino)propane (DLin-MPZ), or 3-(N,N-Dilinoleylamino)-1,2-propanediol (DLinAP), 3-(N,N-Dioleylamino)-1,2-propanedio (DOAP), 1,2-Dilinoleyloxo-3-(2-N,N-dimethylamino)ethoxypropane (DLin-EG-DMA), 1,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA), 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminomethyl[1,3]-dioxolane (DLin-K-DMA) or analogs thereof, (3aR,5s,6aS)-N,N-dimethyl-2,2-di((9Z,12Z)-octadeca-9,12-dienyl)tetrahydro-3aH-cyclopenta[d][1,3]dioxol-5-amine (ALN100), (6Z,9Z,28Z,31Z)-heptatriaconta-6,9,28,31-tetraen-19-yl 4-(dimethylamino)butanoate (MC3), 1,1′-(2-(4-(2-((2-(bis(2-hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)(2-hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)piperazin-1-yl)ethylazanediyl)didodecan-2-ol (Tech G1), or a mixture thereof. The cationic lipid may comprise from about 20 mol % to about 50 mol % or about 40 mol % of the total lipid present in the particle.

In another embodiment, the compound 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane can be used to prepare lipid-siRNA nanoparticles. Synthesis of 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane is described in U.S. provisional patent application No. 61/107,998 filed on Oct. 23, 2008, which is herein incorporated by reference.

In one embodiment, the lipid-siRNA particle includes 40% 2, 2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane: 10% DSPC: 40% Cholesterol: 10% PEG-C-DOMG (mole percent) with a particle size of 63.0±20 nm and a 0.027 siRNA/Lipid Ratio.

The non-cationic lipid may be an anionic lipid or a neutral lipid including, but not limited to, distearoylphosphatidylcholine (DSPC), dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC), dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), dioleoylphosphatidylglycerol (DOPG), dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol (DPPG), dioleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE), palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylcholine (POPC), palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (POPE), dioleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine 4-(N-maleimidomethyl)-cyclohexane-1-carboxylate (DOPE-mal), dipalmitoyl phosphatidyl ethanolamine (DPPE), dimyristoylphosphoethanolamine (DMPE), distearoyl-phosphatidyl-ethanolamine (DSPE), 16-O-monomethyl PE, 16-O-dimethyl PE, 18-1-trans PE, 1-stearoyl-2-oleoyl-phosphatidyethanolamine (SOPE), cholesterol, or a mixture thereof. The non-cationic lipid may be from about 5 mol % to about 90 mol %, about 10 mol %, or about 58 mol % if cholesterol is included, of the total lipid present in the particle.

The conjugated lipid that inhibits aggregation of particles may be, for example, a polyethyleneglycol (PEG)-lipid including, without limitation, a PEG-diacylglycerol (DAG), a PEG-dialkyloxypropyl (DAA), a PEG-phospholipid, a PEG-ceramide (Cer), or a mixture thereof. The PEG-DAA conjugate may be, for example, a PEG-dilauryloxypropyl (Ci₂), a PEG-dimyristyloxypropyl (Ci₄), a PEG-dipalmityloxypropyl (Ci₆), or a PEG-distearyloxypropyl (C]₈). The conjugated lipid that prevents aggregation of particles may be from 0 mol % to about 20 mol % or about 2 mol % of the total lipid present in the particle.

In some embodiments, the nucleic acid-lipid particle further includes cholesterol at, e.g., about 10 mol % to about 60 mol % or about 48 mol % of the total lipid present in the particle.

LNP01

In one embodiment, the lipidoid ND98.4HCl (MW 1487) (see U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/056,230, filed Mar. 26, 2008, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety), Cholesterol (Sigma-Aldrich), and PEG-Ceramide C16 (Avanti Polar Lipids) can be used to prepare lipid-dsRNA nanoparticles (i.e., LNP01 particles). Stock solutions of each in ethanol can be prepared as follows: ND98, 133 mg/ml; Cholesterol, 25 mg/ml, PEG-Ceramide C16, 100 mg/ml. The ND98, Cholesterol, and PEG-Ceramide C16 stock solutions can then be combined in a, e.g., 42:48:10 molar ratio. The combined lipid solution can be mixed with aqueous dsRNA (e.g., in sodium acetate pH 5) such that the final ethanol concentration is about 35-45% and the final sodium acetate concentration is about 100-300 mM. Lipid-dsRNA nanoparticles typically form spontaneously upon mixing. Depending on the desired particle size distribution, the resultant nanoparticle mixture can be extruded through a polycarbonate membrane (e.g., 100 nm cut-off) using, for example, a thermobarrel extruder, such as Lipex Extruder (Northern Lipids, Inc). In some cases, the extrusion step can be omitted. Ethanol removal and simultaneous buffer exchange can be accomplished by, for example, dialysis or tangential flow filtration. Buffer can be exchanged with, for example, phosphate buffered saline (PBS) at about pH 7, e.g., about pH 6.9, about pH 7.0, about pH 7.1, about pH 7.2, about pH 7.3, or about pH 7.4.

LNP01 formulations are described, e.g., in International Application Publication No. WO 2008/042973, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Additional exemplary lipid-dsRNA formulations are as follows:

cationic lipid/non-cationic lipid/cholesterol/PEG-lipid conjugate Cationic Lipid Lipid:siRNA ratio SNALP-1 1,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N- DLinDMA/DPPC/Cholesterol/PEG- dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA) cDMA (57.1/7.1/34.4/1.4) lipid:siRNA ~7:1 S-XTC 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DPPC/Cholesterol/PEG-cDMA [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 57.1/7.1/34.4/1.4 lipid:siRNA ~7:1 LNP05 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 57.5/7.5/31.5/3.5 lipid:siRNA ~6:1 LNP06 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 57.5/7.5/31.5/3.5 lipid:siRNA ~11:1 LNP07 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 60/7.5/31/1.5, lipid:siRNA ~6:1 LNP08 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 60/7.5/31/1.5, lipid:siRNA ~11:1 LNP09 2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl- XTC/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG [1,3]-dioxolane (XTC) 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA 10:1 LNP10 (3aR,5s,6aS)-N,N-dimethyl-2,2- ALN100/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG di((9Z,12Z)-octadeca-9,12- 50/10/38.5/1.5 dienyl)tetrahydro-3aH- Lipid:siRNA 10:1 cyclopenta[d][1,3]dioxol-5-amine (ALN100) LNP11 (6Z,9Z,28Z,31Z)-heptatriaconta- MC-3/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG 6,9,28,31-tetraen-19-yl 4- 50/10/38.5/1.5 (dimethylamino)butanoate (MC3) Lipid:siRNA 10:1 LNP12 1,1′-(2-(4-(2-((2-(bis(2- C12-200/DSPC/Cholesterol/PEG-DMG hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)(2- 50/10/38.5/1.5 hydroxydodecyl)amino)ethyl)piperazin- Lipid:siRNA 10:1 1-yl)ethylazanediyl)didodecan-2-ol (C12-200) LNP13 XTC XTC/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DMG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 33:1 LNP14 MC3 MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DMG 40/15/40/5 Lipid:siRNA: 11:1 LNP15 MC3 MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DSG/GalNAc- PEG-DSG 50/10/35/4.5/0.5 Lipid:siRNA: 11:1 LNP16 MC3 MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DMG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 7:1 LNP17 MC3 MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DSG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 10:1 LNP18 MC3 MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DMG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 12:1 LNP19 MC3 MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DMG 50/10/35/5 Lipid:siRNA: 8:1 LNP20 MC3 MC3/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DPG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 10:1 LNP21 C12-200 C12-200/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DSG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 7:1 LNP22 XTC XTC/DSPC/Chol/PEG-DSG 50/10/38.5/1.5 Lipid:siRNA: 10:1 DSPC: distearoylphosphatidylcholine DPPC: dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine PEG-DMG: PEG-didimyristoyl glycerol (C14-PEG, or PEG-C14) (PEG with avg mol wt of 2000) PEG-DSG: PEG-distyryl glycerol (C18-PEG, or PEG-C18) (PEG with avg mol wt of 2000) PEG-cDMA: PEG-carbamoyl-1,2-dimyristyloxypropylamine (PEG with avg mol wt of 2000)

SNALP (1,2-Dilinolenyloxy-N,N-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA)) comprising formulations are described in International Publication No. WO2009/127060, filed Apr. 15, 2009, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

XTC comprising formulations are described, e.g., in U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 61/239,686, filed Sep. 3, 2009, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

MC3 comprising formulations are described, e.g., in U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 61/244,834, filed Sep. 22, 2009, U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 61/185,800, filed Jun. 10, 2009, and International Application No. PCT/US10/28224, filed Jun. 10, 2010, which are hereby incorporated by reference.

ALNY-100 comprising formulations are described, e.g., International patent application number PCT/US09/63933, filed on Nov. 10, 2009, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

C12-200 comprising formulations are described in U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 61/175,770, filed May 5, 2009 and International Application No. PCT/US10/33777, filed May 5, 2010, which are hereby incorporated by reference.

Synthesis of Cationic Lipids

Any of the compounds, e.g., cationic lipids and the like, used in the nucleic acid-lipid particles of the invention can be prepared by known organic synthesis techniques, including the methods described in more detail in the Examples. All substituents are as defined below unless indicated otherwise.

“Alkyl” means a straight chain or branched, noncyclic or cyclic, saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon containing from 1 to 24 carbon atoms. Representative saturated straight chain alkyls include methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, n-butyl, n-pentyl, n-hexyl, and the like; while saturated branched alkyls include isopropyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl, isopentyl, and the like. Representative saturated cyclic alkyls include cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, and the like; while unsaturated cyclic alkyls include cyclopentenyl and cyclohexenyl, and the like.

“Alkenyl” means an alkyl, as defined above, containing at least one double bond between adjacent carbon atoms. Alkenyls include both cis and trans isomers. Representative straight chain and branched alkenyls include ethylenyl, propylenyl, 1-butenyl, 2-butenyl, isobutylenyl, 1-pentenyl, 2-pentenyl, 3-methyl-1-butenyl, 2-methyl-2-butenyl, 2,3-dimethyl-2-butenyl, and the like.

“Alkynyl” means any alkyl or alkenyl, as defined above, which additionally contains at least one triple bond between adjacent carbons. Representative straight chain and branched alkynyls include acetylenyl, propynyl, 1-butynyl, 2-butynyl, 1-pentynyl, 2-pentynyl, 3-methyl-1 butynyl, and the like.

“Acyl” means any alkyl, alkenyl, or alkynyl wherein the carbon at the point of attachment is substituted with an oxo group, as defined below. For example, —C(═O)alkyl, —C(═O)alkenyl, and —C(═O)alkynyl are acyl groups.

“Heterocycle” means a 5- to 7-membered monocyclic, or 7- to 10-membered bicyclic, heterocyclic ring which is either saturated, unsaturated, or aromatic, and which contains from 1 or 2 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and wherein the nitrogen and sulfur heteroatoms may be optionally oxidized, and the nitrogen heteroatom may be optionally quaternized, including bicyclic rings in which any of the above heterocycles are fused to a benzene ring. The heterocycle can be attached via any heteroatom or carbon atom. Heterocycles include heteroaryls as defined below. Heterocycles include morpholinyl, pyrrolidinonyl, pyrrolidinyl, piperidinyl, piperizynyl, hydantoinyl, valerolactamyl, oxiranyl, oxetanyl, tetrahydrofuranyl, tetrahydropyranyl, tetrahydropyridinyl, tetrahydroprimidinyl, tetrahydrothiophenyl, tetrahydrothiopyranyl, tetrahydropyrimidinyl, tetrahydrothiophenyl, tetrahydrothiopyranyl, and the like.

The terms “optionally substituted alkyl”, “optionally substituted alkenyl”, “optionally substituted alkynyl”, “optionally substituted acyl”, and “optionally substituted heterocycle” means that, when substituted, at least one hydrogen atom is replaced with a substituent. In the case of an oxo substituent (═O) two hydrogen atoms are replaced. In this regard, substituents include oxo, halogen, heterocycle, —CN, —OR^(x), —NR^(x)R^(y), —NR^(x)C(═O)R^(y), —NR^(x)SO₂R^(y), —C(═O)R^(x), —C(═O)OR^(x), —C(═O)NR^(x)R^(y), —SO—R^(x) and —SO—NR^(x)R^(y), wherein n is 0, 1 or 2, R^(x) and R^(y) are the same or different and independently hydrogen, alkyl or heterocycle, and each of said alkyl and heterocycle substituents may be further substituted with one or more of oxo, halogen, —OH, —CN, alkyl, —OR^(x), heterocycle, —NR^(x)R^(y), —NR^(x)C(═O)R^(y), —NR^(x)SO₂R^(y), —C(═O)R^(x), —C(═O)OR^(x), —C(═O)NR^(x)R^(y), —SO—R^(x) and —SO—NR^(x)R^(y).

“Halogen” means fluoro, chloro, bromo and iodo.

In some embodiments, the methods of the invention can require the use of protecting groups. Protecting group methodology is well known to those skilled in the art (see, for example, Protective Groups in Organic Synthesis, Green, T. W. et al., Wiley-Interscience, New York City, 1999). Briefly, protecting groups within the context of this invention are any group that reduces or eliminates unwanted reactivity of a functional group. A protecting group can be added to a functional group to mask its reactivity during certain reactions and then removed to reveal the original functional group. In some embodiments, an “alcohol protecting group” is used. An “alcohol protecting group” is any group which decreases or eliminates unwanted reactivity of an alcohol functional group. Protecting groups can be added and removed using techniques well known in the art.

Synthesis of Formula A

In some embodiments, nucleic acid-lipid particles of the invention are formulated using a cationic lipid of formula A:

where R1 and R2 are independently alkyl, alkenyl or alkynyl, each can be optionally substituted, and R3 and R4 are independently lower alkyl or R3 and R4 can be taken together to form an optionally substituted heterocyclic ring. In some embodiments, the cationic lipid is XTC (2,2-Dilinoleyl-4-dimethylaminoethyl-[1,3]-dioxolane). In general, the lipid of formula A above may be made by the following Reaction Schemes 1 or 2, wherein all substituents are as defined above unless indicated otherwise.

Lipid A, where R₁ and R₂ are independently alkyl, alkenyl or alkynyl, each can be optionally substituted, and R₃ and R₄ are independently lower alkyl or R₃ and R₄ can be taken together to form an optionally substituted heterocyclic ring, can be prepared according to Scheme 1. Ketone 1 and bromide 2 can be purchased or prepared according to methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Reaction of 1 and 2 yields ketal 3. Treatment of ketal 3 with amine 4 yields lipids of formula A. The lipids of formula A can be converted to the corresponding ammonium salt with an organic salt of formula 5, where X is anion counter ion selected from halogen, hydroxide, phosphate, sulfate, or the like.

Alternatively, the ketone 1 starting material can be prepared according to Scheme 2. Grignard reagent 6 and cyanide 7 can be purchased or prepared according to methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Reaction of 6 and 7 yields ketone 1. Conversion of ketone 1 to the corresponding lipids of formula A is as described in Scheme 1.

Synthesis of MC3

Preparation of DLin-M-C3-DMA (i.e., (6Z,9Z,28Z,31Z)-heptatriaconta-6,9,28,31-tetraen-19-yl 4-(dimethylamino)butanoate) was as follows. A solution of (6Z,9Z,28Z,31Z)-heptatriaconta-6,9,28,31-tetraen-19-ol (0.53 g), 4-N,N-dimethylaminobutyric acid hydrochloride (0.51 g), 4-N,N-dimethylaminopyridine (0.61 g) and 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride (0.53 g) in dichloromethane (5 mL) was stirred at room temperature overnight. The solution was washed with dilute hydrochloric acid followed by dilute aqueous sodium bicarbonate. The organic fractions were dried over anhydrous magnesium sulphate, filtered and the solvent removed on a rotovap. The residue was passed down a silica gel column (20 g) using a 1-5% methanol/dichloromethane elution gradient. Fractions containing the purified product were combined and the solvent removed, yielding a colorless oil (0.54 g).

Synthesis of ALNY-100

Synthesis of ketal 519 [ALNY-100] was performed using the following scheme 3:

Synthesis of 515

To a stirred suspension of LiAlH4 (3.74 g, 0.09852 mol) in 200 ml anhydrous THF in a two neck RBF (1 L), was added a solution of 514 (10 g, 0.04926 mol) in 70 mL of THF slowly at 0° C. under nitrogen atmosphere. After complete addition, reaction mixture was warmed to room temperature and then heated to reflux for 4 h. Progress of the reaction was monitored by TLC. After completion of reaction (by TLC) the mixture was cooled to 0° C. and quenched with careful addition of saturated Na2SO4 solution. Reaction mixture was stirred for 4 h at room temperature and filtered off. Residue was washed well with THF. The filtrate and washings were mixed and diluted with 400 mL dioxane and 26 mL conc. HCl and stirred for 20 minutes at room temperature. The volatilities were stripped off under vacuum to furnish the hydrochloride salt of 515 as a white solid. Yield: 7.12 g 1H-NMR (DMSO, 400 MHz): δ=9.34 (broad, 2H), 5.68 (s, 2H), 3.74 (m, 1H), 2.66-2.60 (m, 2H), 2.50-2.45 (m, 5H).

Synthesis of 516

To a stirred solution of compound 515 in 100 mL dry DCM in a 250 mL two neck RBF, was added NEt3 (37.2 mL, 0.2669 mol) and cooled to 0° C. under nitrogen atmosphere. After a slow addition of N-(benzyloxy-carbonyloxy)-succinimide (20 g, 0.08007 mol) in 50 mL dry DCM, reaction mixture was allowed to warm to room temperature. After completion of the reaction (2-3 h by TLC) mixture was washed successively with 1N HCl solution (1×100 mL) and saturated NaHCO3 solution (1×50 mL). The organic layer was then dried over anhyd. Na2SO4 and the solvent was evaporated to give crude material which was purified by silica gel column chromatography to get 516 as sticky mass. Yield: 11 g (89%). 1H-NMR (CDCl3, 400 MHz): δ=7.36-7.27 (m, 5H), 5.69 (s, 2H), 5.12 (s, 2H), 4.96 (br., 1H) 2.74 (s, 3H), 2.60 (m, 2H), 2.30-2.25 (m, 2H). LC-MS [M+H] −232.3 (96.94%).

Synthesis of 517A and 517B

The cyclopentene 516 (5 g, 0.02164 mol) was dissolved in a solution of 220 mL acetone and water (10:1) in a single neck 500 mL RBF and to it was added N-methyl morpholine-N-oxide (7.6 g, 0.06492 mol) followed by 4.2 mL of 7.6% solution of OsO4 (0.275 g, 0.00108 mol) in tert-butanol at room temperature. After completion of the reaction (˜3 h), the mixture was quenched with addition of solid Na2SO3 and resulting mixture was stirred for 1.5 h at room temperature. Reaction mixture was diluted with DCM (300 mL) and washed with water (2×100 mL) followed by saturated NaHCO3 (1×50 mL) solution, water (1×30 mL) and finally with brine (1×50 mL). Organic phase was dried over an.Na2SO4 and solvent was removed in vacuum. Silica gel column chromatographic purification of the crude material was afforded a mixture of diastereomers, which were separated by prep HPLC. Yield: −6 g crude

517A—Peak-1 (white solid), 5.13 g (96%). 1H-NMR (DMSO, 400 MHz): δ=7.39-7.31 (m, 5H), 5.04 (s, 2H), 4.78-4.73 (m, 1H), 4.48-4.47 (d, 2H), 3.94-3.93 (m, 2H), 2.71 (s, 3H), 1.72-1.67 (m, 4H). LC-MS −[M+H]−266.3, [M+NH4+]−283.5 present, HPLC-97.86%. Stereochemistry confirmed by X-ray.

Synthesis of 518

Using a procedure analogous to that described for the synthesis of compound 505, compound 518 (1.2 g, 41%) was obtained as a colorless oil. 1H-NMR (CDCl3, 400 MHz): δ=7.35-7.33 (m, 4H), 7.30-7.27 (m, 1H), 5.37-5.27 (m, 8H), 5.12 (s, 2H), 4.75 (m, 1H), 4.58-4.57 (m, 2H), 2.78-2.74 (m, 7H), 2.06-2.00 (m, 8H), 1.96-1.91 (m, 2H), 1.62 (m, 4H), 1.48 (m, 2H), 1.37-1.25 (br m, 36H), 0.87 (m, 6H). HPLC-98.65%.

General Procedure for the Synthesis of Compound 519

A solution of compound 518 (1 eq) in hexane (15 mL) was added in a drop-wise fashion to an ice-cold solution of LAH in THF (1 M, 2 eq). After complete addition, the mixture was heated at 40° C. over 0.5 h then cooled again on an ice bath. The mixture was carefully hydrolyzed with saturated aqueous Na2SO4 then filtered through celite and reduced to an oil. Column chromatography provided the pure 519 (1.3 g, 68%) which was obtained as a colorless oil. 13C NMR=130.2, 130.1 (x2), 127.9 (x3), 112.3, 79.3, 64.4, 44.7, 38.3, 35.4, 31.5, 29.9 (x2), 29.7, 29.6 (x2), 29.5 (x3), 29.3 (x2), 27.2 (x3), 25.6, 24.5, 23.3, 226, 14.1; Electrospray MS (+ve): Molecular weight for C44H80NO2 (M+H)+ Calc. 654.6. Found 654.6.

Formulations prepared by either the standard or extrusion-free method can be characterized in similar manners. For example, formulations are typically characterized by visual inspection. They should be whitish translucent solutions free from aggregates or sediment. Particle size and particle size distribution of lipid-nanoparticles can be measured by light scattering using, for example, a Malvern Zetasizer Nano ZS (Malvern, USA). Particles should be about 20-300 nm, such as 40-100 nm in size. The particle size distribution should be unimodal. The total dsRNA concentration in the formulation, as well as the entrapped fraction, is estimated using a dye exclusion assay. A sample of the formulated dsRNA can be incubated with an RNA-binding dye, such as Ribogreen (Molecular Probes) in the presence or absence of a formulation disrupting surfactant, e.g., 0.5% Triton-X100. The total dsRNA in the formulation can be determined by the signal from the sample containing the surfactant, relative to a standard curve. The entrapped fraction is determined by subtracting the “free” dsRNA content (as measured by the signal in the absence of surfactant) from the total dsRNA content. Percent entrapped dsRNA is typically >85%. For SNALP formulation, the particle size is at least 30 nm, at least 40 nm, at least 50 nm, at least 60 nm, at least 70 nm, at least 80 nm, at least 90 nm, at least 100 nm, at least 110 nm, and at least 120 nm. The suitable range is typically about at least 50 nm to about at least 110 nm, about at least 60 nm to about at least 100 nm, or about at least 80 nm to about at least 90 nm.

Compositions and formulations for oral administration include powders or granules, microparticulates, nanoparticulates, suspensions or solutions in water or non-aqueous media, capsules, gel capsules, sachets, tablets or minitablets. Thickeners, flavoring agents, diluents, emulsifiers, dispersing aids or binders may be desirable. In some embodiments, oral formulations are those in which dsRNAs featured in the invention are administered in conjunction with one or more penetration enhancers surfactants and chelators. Suitable surfactants include fatty acids and/or esters or salts thereof, bile acids and/or salts thereof. Suitable bile acids/salts include chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and ursodeoxychenodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), cholic acid, dehydrocholic acid, deoxycholic acid, glucholic acid, glycholic acid, glycodeoxycholic acid, taurocholic acid, taurodeoxycholic acid, sodium tauro-24,25-dihydro-fusidate and sodium glycodihydrofusidate. Suitable fatty acids include arachidonic acid, undecanoic acid, oleic acid, lauric acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, dicaprate, tricaprate, monoolein, dilaurin, glyceryl 1-monocaprate, 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, an acylcarnitine, an acylcholine, or a monoglyceride, a diglyceride or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof (e.g., sodium). In some embodiments, combinations of penetration enhancers are used, for example, fatty acids/salts in combination with bile acids/salts. One exemplary combination is the sodium salt of lauric acid, capric acid and UDCA. Further penetration enhancers include polyoxyethylene-9-lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene-20-cetyl ether. DsRNAs featured in the invention may be delivered orally, in granular form including sprayed dried particles, or complexed to form micro or nanoparticles. DsRNA complexing agents include poly-amino acids; polyimines; polyacrylates; polyalkylacrylates, polyoxethanes, polyalkylcyanoacrylates; cationized gelatins, albumins, starches, acrylates, polyethyleneglycols (PEG) and starches; polyalkylcyanoacrylates; DEAE-derivatized polyimines, pollulans, celluloses and starches. Suitable complexing agents include chitosan, N-trimethylchitosan, poly-L-lysine, polyhistidine, polyornithine, polyspermines, protamine, polyvinylpyridine, polythiodiethylaminomethylethylene P(TDAE), polyaminostyrene (e.g., p-amino), poly(methylcyanoacrylate), poly(ethylcyanoacrylate), poly(butylcyanoacrylate), poly(isobutylcyanoacrylate), poly(isohexylcynaoacrylate), DEAE-methacrylate, DEAE-hexylacrylate, DEAE-acrylamide, DEAE-albumin and DEAE-dextran, polymethylacrylate, polyhexylacrylate, poly(D,L-lactic acid), poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), alginate, and polyethyleneglycol (PEG). Oral formulations for dsRNAs and their preparation are described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,887,906, US Publn. No. 20030027780, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Compositions and formulations for parenteral, intraparenchymal (into the brain), intrathecal, intraventricular or intrahepatic administration may include sterile aqueous solutions which may also contain buffers, diluents and other suitable additives such as, but not limited to, penetration enhancers, carrier compounds and other pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or excipients.

Pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, solutions, emulsions, and liposome-containing formulations. These compositions may be generated from a variety of components that include, but are not limited to, preformed liquids, self-emulsifying solids and self-emulsifying semisolids. Particularly preferred are formulations that target the liver when treating hepatic disorders such as hepatic carcinoma.

The pharmaceutical formulations of the present invention, which may conveniently be presented in unit dosage form, may be prepared according to conventional techniques well known in the pharmaceutical industry. Such techniques include the step of bringing into association the active ingredients with the pharmaceutical carrier(s) or excipient(s). In general, the formulations are prepared by uniformly and intimately bringing into association the active ingredients with liquid carriers or finely divided solid carriers or both, and then, if necessary, shaping the product.

The compositions of the present invention may be formulated into any of many possible dosage forms such as, but not limited to, tablets, capsules, gel capsules, liquid syrups, soft gels, suppositories, and enemas. The compositions of the present invention may also be formulated as suspensions in aqueous, non-aqueous or mixed media. Aqueous suspensions may further contain substances which increase the viscosity of the suspension including, for example, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, sorbitol and/or dextran. The suspension may also contain stabilizers.

Additional Formulations

Emulsions

The compositions of the present invention can be prepared and formulated as emulsions. Emulsions are typically heterogeneous systems of one liquid dispersed in another in the form of droplets usually exceeding 0.1 μm in diameter (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199; Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., Volume 1, p. 245; Block in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 2, p. 335; Higuchi et al., in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1985, p. 301). Emulsions are often biphasic systems comprising two immiscible liquid phases intimately mixed and dispersed with each other. In general, emulsions may be of either the water-in-oil (w/o) or the oil-in-water (o/w) variety. When an aqueous phase is finely divided into and dispersed as minute droplets into a bulk oily phase, the resulting composition is called a water-in-oil (w/o) emulsion. Alternatively, when an oily phase is finely divided into and dispersed as minute droplets into a bulk aqueous phase, the resulting composition is called an oil-in-water (o/w) emulsion. Emulsions may contain additional components in addition to the dispersed phases, and the active drug which may be present as a solution in either the aqueous phase, oily phase or itself as a separate phase. Pharmaceutical excipients such as emulsifiers, stabilizers, dyes, and anti-oxidants may also be present in emulsions as needed. Pharmaceutical emulsions may also be multiple emulsions that are comprised of more than two phases such as, for example, in the case of oil-in-water-in-oil (o/w/o) and water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) emulsions. Such complex formulations often provide certain advantages that simple binary emulsions do not. Multiple emulsions in which individual oil droplets of an o/w emulsion enclose small water droplets constitute a w/o/w emulsion. Likewise a system of oil droplets enclosed in globules of water stabilized in an oily continuous phase provides an o/w/o emulsion.

Emulsions are characterized by little or no thermodynamic stability. Often, the dispersed or discontinuous phase of the emulsion is well dispersed into the external or continuous phase and maintained in this form through the means of emulsifiers or the viscosity of the formulation. Either of the phases of the emulsion may be a semisolid or a solid, as is the case of emulsion-style ointment bases and creams. Other means of stabilizing emulsions entail the use of emulsifiers that may be incorporated into either phase of the emulsion. Emulsifiers may broadly be classified into four categories: synthetic surfactants, naturally occurring emulsifiers, absorption bases, and finely dispersed solids (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199).

Synthetic surfactants, also known as surface active agents, have found wide applicability in the formulation of emulsions and have been reviewed in the literature (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Rieger, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 285; Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., 1988, volume 1, p. 199). Surfactants are typically amphiphilic and comprise a hydrophilic and a hydrophobic portion. The ratio of the hydrophilic to the hydrophobic nature of the surfactant has been termed the hydrophile/lipophile balance (HLB) and is a valuable tool in categorizing and selecting surfactants in the preparation of formulations. Surfactants may be classified into different classes based on the nature of the hydrophilic group: nonionic, anionic, cationic and amphoteric (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y. Rieger, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 285).

Naturally occurring emulsifiers used in emulsion formulations include lanolin, beeswax, phosphatides, lecithin and acacia. Absorption bases possess hydrophilic properties such that they can soak up water to form w/o emulsions yet retain their semisolid consistencies, such as anhydrous lanolin and hydrophilic petrolatum. Finely divided solids have also been used as good emulsifiers especially in combination with surfactants and in viscous preparations. These include polar inorganic solids, such as heavy metal hydroxides, nonswelling clays such as bentonite, attapulgite, hectorite, kaolin, montmorillonite, colloidal aluminum silicate and colloidal magnesium aluminum silicate, pigments and nonpolar solids such as carbon or glyceryl tristearate.

A large variety of non-emulsifying materials are also included in emulsion formulations and contribute to the properties of emulsions. These include fats, oils, waxes, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, fatty esters, humectants, hydrophilic colloids, preservatives and antioxidants (Block, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 335; Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199).

Hydrophilic colloids or hydrocolloids include naturally occurring gums and synthetic polymers such as polysaccharides (for example, acacia, agar, alginic acid, carrageenan, guar gum, karaya gum, and tragacanth), cellulose derivatives (for example, carboxymethylcellulose and carboxypropylcellulose), and synthetic polymers (for example, carbomers, cellulose ethers, and carboxyvinyl polymers). These disperse or swell in water to form colloidal solutions that stabilize emulsions by forming strong interfacial films around the dispersed-phase droplets and by increasing the viscosity of the external phase.

Since emulsions often contain a number of ingredients such as carbohydrates, proteins, sterols and phosphatides that may readily support the growth of microbes, these formulations often incorporate preservatives. Commonly used preservatives included in emulsion formulations include methyl paraben, propyl paraben, quaternary ammonium salts, benzalkonium chloride, esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and boric acid. Antioxidants are also commonly added to emulsion formulations to prevent deterioration of the formulation. Antioxidants used may be free radical scavengers such as tocopherols, alkyl gallates, butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, or reducing agents such as ascorbic acid and sodium metabisulfite, and antioxidant synergists such as citric acid, tartaric acid, and lecithin.

The application of emulsion formulations via dermatological, oral and parenteral routes and methods for their manufacture have been reviewed in the literature (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich NG., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199). Emulsion formulations for oral delivery have been very widely used because of ease of formulation, as well as efficacy from an absorption and bioavailability standpoint (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245; Idson, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 199). Mineral-oil base laxatives, oil-soluble vitamins and high fat nutritive preparations are among the materials that have commonly been administered orally as o/w emulsions.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the compositions of iRNAs and nucleic acids are formulated as microemulsions. A microemulsion may be defined as a system of water, oil and amphiphile which is a single optically isotropic and thermodynamically stable liquid solution (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245). Typically microemulsions are systems that are prepared by first dispersing an oil in an aqueous surfactant solution and then adding a sufficient amount of a fourth component, generally an intermediate chain-length alcohol to form a transparent system. Therefore, microemulsions have also been described as thermodynamically stable, isotropically clear dispersions of two immiscible liquids that are stabilized by interfacial films of surface-active molecules (Leung and Shah, in: Controlled Release of Drugs: Polymers and Aggregate Systems, Rosoff, M., Ed., 1989, VCH Publishers, New York, pages 185-215). Microemulsions commonly are prepared via a combination of three to five components that include oil, water, surfactant, cosurfactant and electrolyte. Whether the microemulsion is of the water-in-oil (w/o) or an oil-in-water (o/w) type is dependent on the properties of the oil and surfactant used and on the structure and geometric packing of the polar heads and hydrocarbon tails of the surfactant molecules (Schott, in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1985, p. 271).

The phenomenological approach utilizing phase diagrams has been extensively studied and has yielded a comprehensive knowledge, to one skilled in the art, of how to formulate microemulsions (see e.g., Ansel's Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Allen, L V., Popovich N G., and Ansel H C., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (8th ed.), New York, N.Y.; Rosoff, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 245; Block, in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Lieberman, Rieger and Banker (Eds.), 1988, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, N.Y., volume 1, p. 335). Compared to conventional emulsions, microemulsions offer the advantage of solubilizing water-insoluble drugs in a formulation of thermodynamically stable droplets that are formed spontaneously.

Surfactants used in the preparation of microemulsions include, but are not limited to, ionic surfactants, non-ionic surfactants, Brij 96, polyoxyethylene oleyl ethers, polyglycerol fatty acid esters, tetraglycerol monolaurate (ML310), tetraglycerol monooleate (MO310), hexaglycerol monooleate (PO310), hexaglycerol pentaoleate (PO500), decaglycerol monocaprate (MCA750), decaglycerol monooleate (MO750), decaglycerol sequioleate (SO750), decaglycerol decaoleate (DAO750), alone or in combination with cosurfactants. The cosurfactant, usually a short-chain alcohol such as ethanol, 1-propanol, and 1-butanol, serves to increase the interfacial fluidity by penetrating into the surfactant film and consequently creating a disordered film because of the void space generated among surfactant molecules. Microemulsions may, however, be prepared without the use of cosurfactants and alcohol-free self-emulsifying microemulsion systems are known in the art. The aqueous phase may typically be, but is not limited to, water, an aqueous solution of the drug, glycerol, PEG300, PEG400, polyglycerols, propylene glycols, and derivatives of ethylene glycol. The oil phase may include, but is not limited to, materials such as Captex 300, Captex 355, Capmul MCM, fatty acid esters, medium chain (C8-C12) mono, di, and tri-glycerides, polyoxyethylated glyceryl fatty acid esters, fatty alcohols, polyglycolized glycerides, saturated polyglycolized C8-C10 glycerides, vegetable oils and silicone oil.

Microemulsions are particularly of interest from the standpoint of drug solubilization and the enhanced absorption of drugs. Lipid based microemulsions (both o/w and w/o) have been proposed to enhance the oral bioavailability of drugs, including peptides (see e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,191,105; 7,063,860; 7,070,802; 7,157,099; Constantinides et al., Pharmaceutical Research, 1994, 11, 1385-1390; Ritschel, Meth. Find. Exp. Clin. Pharmacol., 1993, 13, 205). Microemulsions afford advantages of improved drug solubilization, protection of drug from enzymatic hydrolysis, possible enhancement of drug absorption due to surfactant-induced alterations in membrane fluidity and permeability, ease of preparation, ease of oral administration over solid dosage forms, improved clinical potency, and decreased toxicity (see e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,191,105; 7,063,860; 7,070,802; 7,157,099; Constantinides et al., Pharmaceutical Research, 1994, 11, 1385; Ho et al., J. Pharm. Sci., 1996, 85, 138-143). Often microemulsions may form spontaneously when their components are brought together at ambient temperature. This may be particularly advantageous when formulating thermolabile drugs, peptides or iRNAs. Microemulsions have also been effective in the transdermal delivery of active components in both cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. It is expected that the microemulsion compositions and formulations of the present invention will facilitate the increased systemic absorption of iRNAs and nucleic acids from the gastrointestinal tract, as well as improve the local cellular uptake of iRNAs and nucleic acids.

Microemulsions of the present invention may also contain additional components and additives such as sorbitan monostearate (Grill 3), Labrasol, and penetration enhancers to improve the properties of the formulation and to enhance the absorption of the iRNAs and nucleic acids of the present invention. Penetration enhancers used in the microemulsions of the present invention may be classified as belonging to one of five broad categories—surfactants, fatty acids, bile salts, chelating agents, and non-chelating non-surfactants (Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, p. 92). Each of these classes has been discussed above.

Penetration Enhancers

In one embodiment, the present invention employs various penetration enhancers to effect the efficient delivery of nucleic acids, particularly iRNAs, to the skin of animals. Most drugs are present in solution in both ionized and nonionized forms. However, usually only lipid soluble or lipophilic drugs readily cross cell membranes. It has been discovered that even non-lipophilic drugs may cross cell membranes if the membrane to be crossed is treated with a penetration enhancer. In addition to aiding the diffusion of non-lipophilic drugs across cell membranes, penetration enhancers also enhance the permeability of lipophilic drugs.

Penetration enhancers may be classified as belonging to one of five broad categories, i.e., surfactants, fatty acids, bile salts, chelating agents, and non-chelating non-surfactants (see e.g., Malmsten, M. Surfactants and polymers in drug delivery, Informa Health Care, New York, N.Y., 2002; Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, p. 92). Each of the above mentioned classes of penetration enhancers are described below in greater detail.

Surfactants: In connection with the present invention, surfactants (or “surface-active agents”) are chemical entities which, when dissolved in an aqueous solution, reduce the surface tension of the solution or the interfacial tension between the aqueous solution and another liquid, with the result that absorption of iRNAs through the mucosa is enhanced. In addition to bile salts and fatty acids, these penetration enhancers include, for example, sodium lauryl sulfate, polyoxyethylene-9-lauryl ether and polyoxyethylene-20-cetyl ether) (see e.g., Malmsten, M. Surfactants and polymers in drug delivery, Informa Health Care, New York, N.Y., 2002; Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, p. 92); and perfluorochemical emulsions, such as FC-43. Takahashi et al., J. Pharm. Pharmacol., 1988, 40, 252).

Fatty acids: Various fatty acids and their derivatives which act as penetration enhancers include, for example, oleic acid, lauric acid, capric acid (n-decanoic acid), myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, dicaprate, tricaprate, monoolein (1-monooleoyl-rac-glycerol), dilaurin, caprylic acid, arachidonic acid, glycerol 1-monocaprate, 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, acylcarnitines, acylcholines, C₁₋₂₀ alkyl esters thereof (e.g., methyl, isopropyl and t-butyl), and mono- and di-glycerides thereof (i.e., oleate, laurate, caprate, myristate, palmitate, stearate, linoleate, etc.) (see e.g., Touitou, E., et al. Enhancement in Drug Delivery, CRC Press, Danvers, Mass., 2006; Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, p. 92; Muranishi, Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33; El Hariri et al., J. Pharm. Pharmacol., 1992, 44, 651-654).

Bile salts: The physiological role of bile includes the facilitation of dispersion and absorption of lipids and fat-soluble vitamins (see e.g., Malmsten, M. Surfactants and polymers in drug delivery, Informa Health Care, New York, N.Y., 2002; Brunton, Chapter 38 in: Goodman & Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 9th Ed., Hardman et al. Eds., McGraw-Hill, New York, 1996, pp. 934-935). Various natural bile salts, and their synthetic derivatives, act as penetration enhancers. Thus the term “bile salts” includes any of the naturally occurring components of bile as well as any of their synthetic derivatives. Suitable bile salts include, for example, cholic acid (or its pharmaceutically acceptable sodium salt, sodium cholate), dehydrocholic acid (sodium dehydrocholate), deoxycholic acid (sodium deoxycholate), glucholic acid (sodium glucholate), glycholic acid (sodium glycocholate), glycodeoxycholic acid (sodium glycodeoxycholate), taurocholic acid (sodium taurocholate), taurodeoxycholic acid (sodium taurodeoxycholate), chenodeoxycholic acid (sodium chenodeoxycholate), ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), sodium tauro-24,25-dihydro-fusidate (STDHF), sodium glycodihydrofusidate and polyoxyethylene-9-lauryl ether (POE) (see e.g., Malmsten, M. Surfactants and polymers in drug delivery, Informa Health Care, New York, N.Y., 2002; Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, page 92; Swinyard, Chapter 39 In: Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, 18th Ed., Gennaro, ed., Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1990, pages 782-783; Muranishi, Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33; Yamamoto et al., J. Pharm. Exp. Ther., 1992, 263, 25; Yamashita et al., J. Pharm. Sci., 1990, 79, 579-583).

Chelating Agents: Chelating agents, as used in connection with the present invention, can be defined as compounds that remove metallic ions from solution by forming complexes therewith, with the result that absorption of iRNAs through the mucosa is enhanced. With regards to their use as penetration enhancers in the present invention, chelating agents have the added advantage of also serving as DNase inhibitors, as most characterized DNA nucleases require a divalent metal ion for catalysis and are thus inhibited by chelating agents (Jarrett, J. Chromatogr., 1993, 618, 315-339). Suitable chelating agents include but are not limited to disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA), citric acid, salicylates (e.g., sodium salicylate, 5-methoxysalicylate and homovanilate), N-acyl derivatives of collagen, laureth-9 and N-amino acyl derivatives of beta-diketones (enamines)(see e.g., Katdare, A. et al., Excipient development for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and drug delivery, CRC Press, Danvers, Mass., 2006; Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, page 92; Muranishi, Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33; Buur et al., J. Control Rel., 1990, 14, 43-51).

Non-chelating non-surfactants: As used herein, non-chelating non-surfactant penetration enhancing compounds can be defined as compounds that demonstrate insignificant activity as chelating agents or as surfactants but that nonetheless enhance absorption of iRNAs through the alimentary mucosa (see e.g., Muranishi, Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1990, 7, 1-33). This class of penetration enhancers includes, for example, unsaturated cyclic ureas, 1-alkyl- and 1-alkenylazacyclo-alkanone derivatives (Lee et al., Critical Reviews in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems, 1991, page 92); and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents such as diclofenac sodium, indomethacin and phenylbutazone (Yamashita et al., J. Pharm. Pharmacol., 1987, 39, 621-626).

Agents that enhance uptake of iRNAs at the cellular level may also be added to the pharmaceutical and other compositions of the present invention. For example, cationic lipids, such as lipofectin (Junichi et al, U.S. Pat. No. 5,705,188), cationic glycerol derivatives, and polycationic molecules, such as polylysine (Lollo et al., PCT Application WO 97/30731), are also known to enhance the cellular uptake of dsRNAs. Examples of commercially available transfection reagents include, for example Lipofectamine™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), Lipofectamine 2000™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), 293Fectin™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), Cellfectin™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), DMRIE-C™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), FreeStyle™ MAX (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), Lipofectamine™ 2000 CD (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), Lipofectamine™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), RNAiMAX (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), Oligofectamine™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), Optifect™ (Invitrogen; Carlsbad, Calif.), X-tremeGENE Q2 Transfection Reagent (Roche; Grenzacherstrasse, Switzerland), DOTAP Liposomal Transfection Reagent (Grenzacherstrasse, Switzerland), DOSPER Liposomal Transfection Reagent (Grenzacherstrasse, Switzerland), or Fugene (Grenzacherstrasse, Switzerland), Transfectam® Reagent (Promega; Madison, Wis.), TransFast™ Transfection Reagent (Promega; Madison, Wis.), Tfx™-20 Reagent (Promega; Madison, Wis.), Tfx™-50 Reagent (Promega; Madison, Wis.), DreamFect™ (OZ Biosciences; Marseille, France), EcoTransfect (OZ Biosciences; Marseille, France), TransPass^(a) D1 Transfection Reagent (New England Biolabs; Ipswich, Mass., USA), LyoVec™/LipoGen™ (Invivogen; San Diego, Calif., USA), PerFectin Transfection Reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), NeuroPORTER Transfection Reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), GenePORTER Transfection reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), GenePORTER 2 Transfection reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), Cytofectin Transfection Reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), BaculoPORTER Transfection Reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), TroganPORTER™ transfection Reagent (Genlantis; San Diego, Calif., USA), RiboFect (Bioline; Taunton, Mass., USA), PlasFect (Bioline; Taunton, Mass., USA), UniFECTOR (B-Bridge International; Mountain View, Calif., USA), SureFECTOR (B-Bridge International; Mountain View, Calif., USA), or HiFect™ (B-Bridge International, Mountain View, Calif., USA), among others.

Other agents may be utilized to enhance the penetration of the administered nucleic acids, including glycols such as ethylene glycol and propylene glycol, pyrrols such as 2-pyrrol, azones, and terpenes such as limonene and menthone.

Carriers

Certain compositions of the present invention also incorporate carrier compounds in the formulation. As used herein, “carrier compound” or “carrier” can refer to a nucleic acid, or analog thereof, which is inert (i.e., does not possess biological activity per se) but is recognized as a nucleic acid by in vivo processes that reduce the bioavailability of a nucleic acid having biological activity by, for example, degrading the biologically active nucleic acid or promoting its removal from circulation. The coadministration of a nucleic acid and a carrier compound, typically with an excess of the latter substance, can result in a substantial reduction of the amount of nucleic acid recovered in the liver, kidney or other extracirculatory reservoirs, presumably due to competition between the carrier compound and the nucleic acid for a common receptor. For example, the recovery of a partially phosphorothioate dsRNA in hepatic tissue can be reduced when it is coadministered with polyinosinic acid, dextran sulfate, polycytidic acid or 4-acetamido-4′isothiocyano-stilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid (Miyao et al., DsRNA Res. Dev., 1995, 5, 115-121; Takakura et al., DsRNA & Nucl. Acid Drug Dev., 1996, 6, 177-183.

Excipients

In contrast to a carrier compound, a “pharmaceutical carrier” or “excipient” is a pharmaceutically acceptable solvent, suspending agent or any other pharmacologically inert vehicle for delivering one or more nucleic acids to an animal. The excipient may be liquid or solid and is selected, with the planned manner of administration in mind, so as to provide for the desired bulk, consistency, etc., when combined with a nucleic acid and the other components of a given pharmaceutical composition. Typical pharmaceutical carriers include, but are not limited to, binding agents (e.g., pregelatinized maize starch, polyvinylpyrrolidone or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, etc.); fillers (e.g., lactose and other sugars, microcrystalline cellulose, pectin, gelatin, calcium sulfate, ethyl cellulose, polyacrylates or calcium hydrogen phosphate, etc.); lubricants (e.g., magnesium stearate, talc, silica, colloidal silicon dioxide, stearic acid, metallic stearates, hydrogenated vegetable oils, corn starch, polyethylene glycols, sodium benzoate, sodium acetate, etc.); disintegrants (e.g., starch, sodium starch glycolate, etc.); and wetting agents (e.g., sodium lauryl sulphate, etc).

Pharmaceutically acceptable organic or inorganic excipients suitable for non-parenteral administration which do not deleteriously react with nucleic acids can also be used to formulate the compositions of the present invention. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include, but are not limited to, water, salt solutions, alcohols, polyethylene glycols, gelatin, lactose, amylose, magnesium stearate, talc, silicic acid, viscous paraffin, hydroxymethylcellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone and the like.

Formulations for topical administration of nucleic acids may include sterile and non-sterile aqueous solutions, non-aqueous solutions in common solvents such as alcohols, or solutions of the nucleic acids in liquid or solid oil bases. The solutions may also contain buffers, diluents and other suitable additives. Pharmaceutically acceptable organic or inorganic excipients suitable for non-parenteral administration which do not deleteriously react with nucleic acids can be used.

Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable excipients include, but are not limited to, water, salt solutions, alcohol, polyethylene glycols, gelatin, lactose, amylose, magnesium stearate, talc, silicic acid, viscous paraffin, hydroxymethylcellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone and the like.

Other Components

The compositions of the present invention may additionally contain other adjunct components conventionally found in pharmaceutical compositions, at their art-established usage levels. Thus, for example, the compositions may contain additional, compatible, pharmaceutically-active materials such as, for example, antipruritics, astringents, local anesthetics or anti-inflammatory agents, or may contain additional materials useful in physically formulating various dosage forms of the compositions of the present invention, such as dyes, flavoring agents, preservatives, antioxidants, opacifiers, thickening agents and stabilizers. However, such materials, when added, should not unduly interfere with the biological activities of the components of the compositions of the present invention. The formulations can be sterilized and, if desired, mixed with auxiliary agents, e.g., lubricants, preservatives, stabilizers, wetting agents, emulsifiers, salts for influencing osmotic pressure, buffers, colorings, flavorings and/or aromatic substances and the like which do not deleteriously interact with the nucleic acid(s) of the formulation.

Aqueous suspensions can contain substances that increase the viscosity of the suspension including, for example, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, sorbitol and/or dextran. The suspension may also contain stabilizers.

In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions featured in the invention include (a) one or more iRNA compounds and (b) one or more anti-cytokine biologic agents which function by a non-RNAi mechanism. Examples of such biologics include, biologics that target IL1β (e.g., anakinra), IL6 (e.g., tocilizumab), or TNF (e.g., etanercept, infliximab, adlimumab, or certolizumab).

Toxicity and therapeutic efficacy of such compounds can be determined by standard pharmaceutical procedures in cell cultures or experimental animals, e.g., for determining the LD50 (the dose lethal to 50% of the population) and the ED50 (the dose therapeutically effective in 50% of the population). The dose ratio between toxic and therapeutic effects is the therapeutic index and it can be expressed as the ratio LD50/ED50. Compounds that exhibit high therapeutic indices are preferred.

The data obtained from cell culture assays and animal studies can be used in formulating a range of dosage for use in humans. The dosage of compositions featured herein lies generally within a range of circulating concentrations that include the ED50 with little or no toxicity. The dosage can vary within this range depending upon the dosage form employed and the route of administration utilized. For any compound used in the methods featured in the invention, the therapeutically effective dose can be estimated initially from cell culture assays. A dose can be formulated in animal models to achieve a circulating plasma concentration range of the compound or, when appropriate, of the polypeptide product of a target sequence (e.g., achieving a decreased concentration of the polypeptide) that includes the IC50 (i.e., the concentration of the test compound which achieves a half-maximal inhibition of symptoms) as determined in cell culture. Such information can be used to more accurately determine useful doses in humans. Levels in plasma may be measured, for example, by high performance liquid chromatography.

In addition to their administration, as discussed above, the iRNAs described herein can be administered in combination with other known agents effective in treatment of pathological processes mediated by Mylip/Idol expression. In any event, the administering physician can adjust the amount and timing of iRNA administration on the basis of results observed using standard measures of efficacy known in the art or described herein.

Methods for Treating Diseases Caused by Expression of a Mylip/Idol Gene

The invention relates in particular to the use of an iRNA targeting Mylip/Idol and compositions containing at least one such iRNA for the treatment of a Mylip/Idol-mediated disorder or disease. For example, a composition containing an iRNA targeting a Mylip/Idol gene is used for treatment of lipid or metabolic disorders, such as hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidemia, diabetes, diabetes type I, diabetes type II, coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass graft, percutaneous transluminal angioplasties, coronary stenosis, cerebrovascular disease transient ischemic attack, ischemic stroke, carotid endarterectomies, peripheral arterial disease, and other disorders associated with cholesterol metabolism.

The invention further relates to the use of an iRNA or a pharmaceutical composition thereof, e.g., for treating a lipid disorder, in combination with other pharmaceuticals and/or other therapeutic methods, e.g., with known pharmaceuticals and/or known therapeutic methods, such as, for example, those which are currently employed for treating these disorders. For example, in certain embodiments, an iRNA targeting Mylip/Idol is administered in combination with, e.g., an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (e.g., a statin, such as atrovastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin or simvastatin), a fibrate, a bile acid sequestrant, niacin, an antiplatelet agent, an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist (e.g., losartan potassium, such as Merck & Co.'s Cozaar®), an acylCoA cholesterol acetyltransferase (ACAT) inhibitor, a cholesterol absorption inhibitor, a cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor, a microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) inhibitor, a cholesterol modulator, a bile acid modulator, a peroxisome proliferation activated receptor (PPAR) agonist, a gene-based therapy, a composite vascular protectant (e.g., AGI-1067, from Atherogenics), a glycoprotein Ith/IIIa inhibitor, aspirin or an aspirin-like compound, an IBAT inhibitor (e.g., S-8921, from Shionogi), a squalene synthase inhibitor, or a monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-I inhibitor. Exemplary HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors include atorvastatin (Pfizer's Lipitor®/Tahor/Sortis/Torvast/Cardyl), pravastatin (Bristol-Myers Squibb's Pravachol, Sankyo's Mevalotin/Sanaprav), simvastatin (Merck's Zocor®/Sinvacor, Boehringer Ingelheim's Denan, Banyu's Lipovas), lovastatin (Merck's Mevacor/Mevinacor, Bexal's Lovastatina, Cepa; Schwarz Pharma's Liposcler), fluvastatin (Novartis' Lescol®/Locol/Lochol, Fujisawa's Cranoc, Solvay's Digaril), cerivastatin (Bayer's Lipobay/GlaxoSmithKline's Baycol), rosuvastatin (AstraZeneca's Crestor®), and pitivastatin (itavastatin/risivastatin) (Nissan Chemical, Kowa Kogyo, Sankyo, and Novartis). Exemplary fibrates include, e.g., bezafibrate (e.g., Roche's Befizal®/Cedur®/Bezalip®, Kissei's Bezatol), clofibrate (e.g., Wyeth's Atromid-S®), fenofibrate (e.g., Fournier's Lipidil/Lipantil, Abbott's Tricor®, Takeda's Lipantil, generics), gemfibrozil (e.g., Pfizer's Lopid/Lipur) and ciprofibrate (Sanofi-Synthelabo's Modalim®). Exemplary bile acid sequestrants include, e.g., cholestyramine (Bristol-Myers Squibb's Questran® and Questran Light™), colestipol (e.g., Pharmacia's Colestid), and colesevelam (Genzyme/Sankyo's WelChol™). Exemplary niacin therapies include, e.g., immediate release formulations, such as Aventis' Nicobid, Upsher-Smith's Niacor, Aventis' Nicolar, and Sanwakagaku's Perycit. Niacin extended release formulations include, e.g., Kos Pharmaceuticals' Niaspan and Upsher-Smith's SIo-Niacin. Exemplary antiplatelet agents include, e.g., aspirin (e.g., Bayer's aspirin), clopidogrel (Sanofi-Synthelabo/Bristol-Myers Squibb's Plavix), and ticlopidine (e.g., Sanofi-Synthelabo's Ticlid and Daiichi's Panaldine). Other aspirin-like compounds useful in combination with an iRNA targeting Mylip/Idol include, e.g., Asacard (slow-release aspirin, by Pharmacia) and Pamicogrel (Kanebo/Angelini Ricerche/CEPA). Exemplary angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors include, e.g., ramipril (e.g., Aventis' Altace) and enalapril (e.g., Merck & Co.'s Vasotec). Exemplary acyl CoA cholesterol acetyltransferase (ACAT) inhibitors include, e.g., avasimibe (Pfizer), eflucimibe (BioM{acute over (ε)}ieux Pierre Fabre/Eli Lilly), CS-505 (Sankyo and Kyoto), and SMP-797 (Sumito). Exemplary cholesterol absorption inhibitors include, e.g., ezetimibe (Merck/Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals Zetia®) and Pamaqueside (Pfizer). Exemplary CETP inhibitors include, e.g., Torcetrapib (also called CP-529414, Pfizer), JTT-705 (Japan Tobacco), and CETi-I (Avant Immunotherapeutics). Exemplary microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) inhibitors include, e.g., implitapide (Bayer), R-103757 (Janssen), and CP-346086 (Pfizer). Other exemplary cholesterol modulators include, e.g., NO-1886 (Otsuka/TAP Pharmaceutical), CI-1027 (Pfizer), and WAY-135433 (Wyeth-Ayerst). Exemplary bile acid modulators include, e.g., HBS-107 (Hisamitsu/Banyu), Btg-511 (British Technology Group), BARI-1453 (Aventis), S-8921 (Shionogi), SD-5613 (Pfizer), and AZD-7806 (AstraZeneca). Exemplary peroxisome proliferation activated receptor (PPAR) agonists include, e.g., tesaglitazar (AZ-242) (AstraZeneca), Netoglitazone (MCC-555) (Mitsubishi/Johnson & Johnson), GW-409544 (Ligand Pharmaceuticals/GlaxoSmithKline), GW-501516 (Ligand Pharmaceuticals/GlaxoSmithKline), LY-929 (Ligand Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly), LY-465608 (Ligand Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly), LY-518674 (Ligand Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly), and MK-767 (Merck and Kyorin). Exemplary gene-based therapies include, e.g., AdGWEGF121.10 (GenVec), ApoAl (UCB Pharma/Groupe Fournier), EG-004 (Trinam) (Ark Therapeutics), and ATP-binding cassette transporter-Al (ABCA1) (CV Therapeutics/Incyte, Aventis, Xenon). Exemplary Glycoprotein Ilb/IIIa inhibitors include, e.g., roxifiban (also called DMP754, Bristol-Myers Squibb), Gantofiban (Merck KGaA/Yamanouchi), and Cromafiban (Millennium Pharmaceuticals). Exemplary squalene synthase inhibitors include, e.g., BMS-1884941 (Bristol-Myers Squibb), CP-210172 (Pfizer), CP-295697 (Pfizer), CP-294838 (Pfizer), and TAK-475 (Takeda). An exemplary MCP-I inhibitor is, e.g., RS-504393 (Roche Bioscience). The anti-atherosclerotic agent BO-653 (Chugai Pharmaceuticals), and the nicotinic acid derivative Nyclin (Yamanouchi Pharmaceuticals) are also appropriate for administering in combination with an iRNA featured in the invention. Exemplary combination therapies suitable for administration with an iRNA targeting Mylip/Idol include, e.g., advicor (Niacin/lovastatin from Kos Pharmaceuticals), amlodipine/atorvastatin (Pfizer), and ezetimibe/simvastatin (e.g., Vytorin® 10/10, 10/20, 10/40, and 10/80 tablets by Merck/Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals). Agents for treating hypercholesterolemia, and suitable for administration in combination with an iRNA targeting Mylip/Idol include, e.g., lovastatin, niacin Altoprev® Extended-Release Tablets (Andrx Labs), lovastatin Caduet® Tablets (Pfizer), amlodipine besylate, atorvastatin calcium Crestor® Tablets (AstraZeneca), rosuvastatin calcium Lescol® Capsules (Novartis), fluvastatin sodium Lescol® (Reliant, Novartis), fluvastatin sodium Lipitor® Tablets (Parke-Davis), atorvastatin calcium Lofibra® Capsules (Gate), Niaspan Extended-Release Tablets (Kos), niacin Pravachol Tablets (Bristol-Myers Squibb), pravastatin sodium TriCor® Tablets (Abbott), fenofibrate Vytorin® 10/10 Tablets (Merck/Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals), ezetimibe, simvastatin WelChol™ Tablets (Sankyo), colesevelam hydrochloride Zetia® Tablets (Schering), ezetimibe Zetia® Tablets (Merck/Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals), and ezetimibe Zocor® Tablets (Merck).

In one embodiment, a dsRNA targeting Mylip/Idol is administered in combination with an ezetimibe/simvastatin combination (e.g., Vytorin® (Merck/Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals)).

The invention further relates to the use of a dsRNA or a pharmaceutical composition containing a dsRNA for treatment of a metabolic disorder, such as diabetes, in combination with other pharmaceuticals and/or other therapeutic methods, e.g., with known pharmaceuticals and/or known therapeutic methods, such as, for example, those which are currently employed for treating metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes). For example, in certain embodiments, administration of a dsRNA targeting Mylip/Idol is administered in combination with, e.g., insulin (e.g., insulin injections); a biguanide (e.g., metformin); a sulfonylurea (e.g., glibenclamide, glipizide, tolbautamide, chloropamidem, tolazamide, glimepride, glicazide or glyburide); an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor (e.g., acarbose); a PPAR gamma agonist (e.g., thiazolidinedione and derivatives such as rosiglitazone or pioglitazone); an oxadiazolidinedione; a meglitinide; a D-phenylalanine derivative; repaglinide; a PPAR (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor) ligand including the PPAR-alpha, PPAR-gamma and PPAR-delta subtypes; an RXR (retinoid X receptor) agonist, such as ALRT-268, LG-1268 or LG-1069; a PPAR alpha agonist (e.g., clofibrate and gemfibrozil); an alpha agonist (non-thiazolinedione); a glycogen phosphorylase inhibitor; a glucagon-like peptide; a dipeptidylpeptidase IV inhibitor; an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (e.g., a statin, such as atrovastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin or simvastatin); a GLP-1 antagonist; a DPP-IV (dipeptidyl peptidase-IV) inhibitor; a PTPase (protein tyrosine phosphatase) inhibitor; or a compound lowering food intake.

The iRNA and an additional therapeutic agent can be administered in the same combination, e.g., parenterally, or the additional therapeutic agent can be administered as part of a separate composition or by another method described herein.

The invention features a method of administering an iRNA agent targeting Mylip/Idol to a patient having a disease or disorder mediated by Mylip/Idol expression, such as a lipid disorder, or a disorder associated with cholesterol metabolism, e.g., diabetes or atherosclerosis. Administration of the dsRNA can lower LDL levels, lower ApoB levels, or lower total cholesterol level, for example, in a patient with a lipid disorder, or a disorder associated with cholesterol metabolism. By “lower” in this context is meant a statistically significant decrease in such level. The decrease can be, for example, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40% or more, and is preferably down to a level accepted as within the range of normal for an individual without such disorder.

Efficacy of treatment or prevention of disease can be assessed, for example by measuring disease progression, disease remission, symptom severity, reduction in pain, quality of life, dose of a medication required to sustain a treatment effect, level of a disease marker or any other measurable parameter appropriate for a given disease being treated or targeted for prevention. It is well within the ability of one skilled in the art to monitor efficacy of treatment or prevention by measuring any one of such parameters, or any combination of parameters. For example, the levels of LDL cholesterol can be monitored for efficacy of a given treatment regime. The iRNA treatments described herein can be used to treat individuals having moderately elevated plasma LDL cholesterol levels (e.g., 130-159 mg/dL), high LDL plasma levels (e.g., 160-189 mg/dL), or very high LDL cholesterol levels (e.g., 190 mg/dL). In addition, the treatment described herein may also be used to prevent high LDL cholesterol levels in individuals with only minor elevations in LDL cholesterol (e.g., 100-129 mg/dL). One of skill in the art can easily monitor the LDL levels in subjects receiving treatment with iRNA as described herein and assay for a reduction in LDL cholesterol levels of at least 10% and preferably to a clinical level representing a low risk of LDL cholesterol mediated disease e.g., <100 mg/dL.

A treatment or preventive effect is evident when there is a statistically significant improvement in one or more parameters of disease status, or by a failure to worsen or to develop symptoms where they would otherwise be anticipated. As an example, a favorable change of at least 10% in a measurable parameter of disease, and preferably at least 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% or more can be indicative of effective treatment. Efficacy for a given iRNA drug or formulation of that drug can also be judged using an experimental animal model for the given disease as known in the art. When using an experimental animal model, efficacy of treatment is evidenced when a statistically significant reduction in a marker or symptom is observed.

Alternatively, the efficacy can be measured by a reduction in the severity of disease as determined by one skilled in the art of diagnosis based on a clinically accepted disease severity grading scale, as but one example the NYHA Classes of Heart failure. In this example, there are four stages of heart failure graded from mild to severe, based on symptoms such as e.g., the ability to carry on physical activity, shortness of breath, and palpitations. Efficacy can be measured in this example by the movement of a patient from e.g., a Class IV (severe) heart failure profile to a Class III, Class II, or Class I heart failure profile. Similar grading scales exist for many diseases and disorders, including, but not limited to heart disease, diabetic retinopathy, systemic sclerosis, Clostridium difficile-Associated Disease, Lipodystrophy (the Lipodystrophy Severity Grading Scale), HIV (the HIV Outpatient Study scale), cancer grading, cancer staging, etc., and can be used to determine a patient's progress in response to treatment. Any positive change resulting in e.g., lessening of severity of disease measured using the appropriate scale, represents adequate treatment using an iRNA or iRNA formulation as described herein.

Patients can be administered a therapeutic amount of iRNA, such as 0.01 mg/kg, 0.05 mg/kg, 0.1 mg/kg, 0.5 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 2.0 mg/kg, or 2.5 mg/kg dsRNA. The iRNA can be administered by intravenous infusion over a period of time, such as over a 5 minute, 10 minute, 15 minute, 20 minute, or 25 minute period. The administration is repeated, for example, on a regular basis, such as biweekly (i.e., every two weeks) for one month, two months, three months, four months or longer. After an initial treatment regimen, the treatments can be administered on a less frequent basis. For example, after administration biweekly for three months, administration can be repeated once per month, for six months or a year or longer. Administration of the iRNA can reduce Mylip/Idol levels, e.g., in a cell, tissue, blood, urine or other compartment of the patient by at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80% or at least 90% or more.

Before administration of a full dose of the iRNA, patients can be administered a smaller dose, such as a 5% infusion reaction, and monitored for adverse effects, such as an allergic reaction, or for elevated lipid levels or blood pressure. In another example, the patient can be monitored for unwanted immunostimulatory effects, such as increased cytokine (e.g., TNF-alpha or INF-alpha) levels.

Many lipid diseases and disorders are hereditary. Therefore, a patient in need of a Mylip/Idol iRNA may be identified by taking a family history. A healthcare provider, such as a doctor, nurse, or family member, can take a family history before prescribing or administering a Mylip/Idol dsRNA. A DNA test may also be performed on the patient to identify a mutation in the Mylip/Idol gene, before a Mylip/Idol dsRNA is administered to the patient.

Owing to the inhibitory effects on Mylip/Idol expression, a composition according to the invention or a pharmaceutical composition prepared therefrom can enhance the quality of life.

Methods for Modulating Expression of a Mylip/Idol Gene

In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method for modulating (e.g., inhibiting or activating) the expression of a Mylip/Idol gene in a mammal.

In one embodiment, the method includes administering a composition featured in the invention to the mammal such that expression of the target Mylip/Idol gene is decreased, such as for an extended duration, e.g., at least two, three, four days or more, e.g., one week, two weeks, three weeks, or four weeks or longer. The effect of the decreased target Mylip/Idol gene preferably results in a decrease in LDLc levels in the blood, and more particularly in the serum, of the mammal. In some embodiments, LDLc levels are decreased by at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, or at least 60%, or more, as compared to pretreatment levels.

In another embodiment, the method includes administering a composition as described herein to a mammal such that expression of the target Mylip/Idol gene is increased by e.g., at least 10% compared to an untreated animal. In some embodiments, the activation of Mylip/Idol occurs over an extended duration, e.g., at least two, three, four days or more, e.g., one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, or more. Without wishing to be bound by theory, an iRNA can activate Mylip/Idol expression by stabilizing the Mylip/Idol mRNA transcript, interacting with a promoter in the genome, and/or inhibiting an inhibitor of Mylip/Idol expression.

Preferably, the iRNAs useful for the methods and compositions featured in the invention specifically target RNAs (primary or processed) of the target Mylip/Idol gene. Compositions and methods for inhibiting the expression of these Mylip/Idol genes using iRNAs can be prepared and performed as described elsewhere herein.

In one embodiment, the method includes administering a composition containing an iRNA, where the iRNA includes a nucleotide sequence that is complementary to at least a part of an RNA transcript of the Mylip/Idol gene of the mammal to be treated. When the organism to be treated is a mammal such as a human, the composition may be administered by any means known in the art including, but not limited to oral, intraperitoneal, or parenteral routes, including intracranial (e.g., intraventricular, intraparenchymal and intrathecal), intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, transdermal, airway (aerosol), nasal, rectal, and topical (including buccal and sublingual) administration. In certain embodiments, the compositions are administered by intravenous infusion or injection.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the iRNAs and methods featured in the invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

Examples Example 1 Interference RNA (iRNA) Synthesis

Source of Reagents

Where the source of a reagent is not specifically given herein, such reagent may be obtained from any supplier of reagents for molecular biology at a quality/purity standard for application in molecular biology.

Oligonucleotide Synthesis.

Applicants have used several different methods to generate the iRNA molecules described herein. This Example describes one approach that has been used. The ordinarily skilled artisan can use any method known in the art to prepare iRNAs as described herein.

Oligonucleotides are synthesized on an AKTAoligopilot synthesizer.

Commercially available controlled pore glass solid support (dT-CPG, 500{acute over (Å)}, Prime Synthesis) and RNA phosphoramidites with standard protecting groups, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl N6-benzoyl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-adenosine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-N4-acetyl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-cytidine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-N2-isobutryl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-guanosine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite, and 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-2′-t-butyldimethylsilyl-uridine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethylphosphoramidite (Pierce Nucleic Acids Technologies) were used for the oligonucleotide synthesis. The 2′-F phosphoramidites, 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-N4-acetyl-2′-fluro-cytidine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethyl-phosphoramidite and 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-2′-fluro-uridine-3′-O—N,N′-diisopropyl-2-cyanoethyl-phosphoramidite are purchased from (Promega). All phosphoramidites are used at a concentration of 0.2M in acetonitrile (CH₃CN) except for guanosine which is used at 0.2M concentration in 10% THF/ANC (v/v). Coupling/recycling time of 16 minutes is used. The activator is 5-ethyl thiotetrazole (0.75M, American International Chemicals); for the PO-oxidation iodine/water/pyridine is used and for the PS-oxidation PADS (2%) in 2,6-lutidine/ACN (1:1 v/v) is used.

3′-ligand conjugated strands are synthesized using solid support containing the corresponding ligand. For example, the introduction of cholesterol unit in the sequence is performed from a hydroxyprolinol-cholesterol phosphoramidite. Cholesterol is tethered to trans-4-hydroxyprolinol via a 6-aminohexanoate linkage to obtain a hydroxyprolinol-cholesterol moiety. 5′-end Cy-3 and Cy-5.5 (fluorophore) labeled iRNAs are synthesized from the corresponding Quasar-570 (Cy-3) phosphoramidite are purchased from Biosearch Technologies. Conjugation of ligands to 5′-end and or internal position is achieved by using appropriately protected ligand-phosphoramidite building block. An extended 15 min coupling of 0.1 M solution of phosphoramidite in anhydrous CH₃CN in the presence of 5-(ethylthio)-1H-tetrazole activator to a solid-support-bound oligonucleotide. Oxidation of the internucleotide phosphite to the phosphate is carried out using standard iodine-water as reported (1) or by treatment with tert-butyl hydroperoxide/acetonitrile/water (10:87:3) with 10 min oxidation wait time conjugated oligonucleotide. Phosphorothioate is introduced by the oxidation of phosphite to phosphorothioate by using a sulfur transfer reagent such as DDTT (purchased from AM Chemicals), PADS and or Beaucage reagent. The cholesterol phosphoramidite is synthesized in house and used at a concentration of 0.1 M in dichloromethane. Coupling time for the cholesterol phosphoramidite is 16 minutes.

Deprotection I (Nucleobase Deprotection)

After completion of synthesis, the support is transferred to a 100 mL glass bottle (VWR). The oligonucleotide is cleaved from the support with simultaneous deprotection of base and phosphate groups with 80 mL of a mixture of ethanolic ammonia [ammonia: ethanol (3:1)] for 6.5 h at 55° C. The bottle is cooled briefly on ice and then the ethanolic ammonia mixture is filtered into a new 250-mL bottle. The CPG is washed with 2×40 mL portions of ethanol/water (1:1 v/v). The volume of the mixture is then reduced to ˜30 mL by roto-vap. The mixture is then frozen on dry ice and dried under vacuum on a speed vac.

Deprotection II (Removal of 2′-TBDMS Group)

The dried residue is resuspended in 26 mL of triethylamine, triethylamine trihydrofluoride (TEA•3HF) or pyridine-HF and DMSO (3:4:6) and heated at 60° C. for 90 minutes to remove the tert-butyldimethylsilyl (TBDMS) groups at the 2′ position. The reaction is then quenched with 50 mL of 20 mM sodium acetate and the pH is adjusted to 6.5. Oligonucleotide is stored in a freezer until purification.

Analysis

The oligonucleotides are analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) prior to purification and selection of buffer and column depends on nature of the sequence and or conjugated ligand.

HPLC Purification

The ligand-conjugated oligonucleotides are purified by reverse-phase preparative HPLC. The unconjugated oligonucleotides are purified by anion-exchange HPLC on a TSK gel column packed in house. The buffers are 20 mM sodium phosphate (pH 8.5) in 10% CH₃CN (buffer A) and 20 mM sodium phosphate (pH 8.5) in 10% CH₃CN, 1M NaBr (buffer B). Fractions containing full-length oligonucleotides are pooled, desalted, and lyophilized. Approximately 0.15 OD of desalted oligonucleotides are diluted in water to 150 μL and then pipetted into special vials for CGE and LC/MS analysis. Compounds are then analyzed by LC-ESMS and CGE.

iRNA Preparation

For the general preparation of iRNA, equimolar amounts of sense and antisense strand are heated in 1×PBS at 95° C. for 5 min and slowly cooled to room temperature. Integrity of the duplex is confirmed by HPLC analysis.

Nucleic acid sequences are represented below using standard nomenclature, and specifically the abbreviations of Table 2.

TABLE 2 Abbreviations of nucleotide monomers used in nucleic acid sequence representation. It will be understood that these monomers, when present in an oligonucleotide, are mutually linked by 5′-3′-phosphodiester bonds. Abbreviation Nucleotide(s) A adenosine C cytidine G guanosine T thymidine U uridine N any nucleotide (G, A, C, T or U) a 2′-O-methyladenosine c 2′-O-methylcytidine g 2′-O-methylguanosine u 2′-O-methyluridine dT 2′-deoxythymidine s phosphorothioate linkage

Example 2 Mylip/Idol siRNA Design

Transcripts

siRNAs targeting Mylip/Idol were designed and synthesized. The design used human transcript NM_013262.3 (SEQ ID NO: 644, FIG. 1) and rat transcript NM_153789.3 (SEQ ID NO: 642) from the NCBI Refseq collection.

siRNA duplexes were designed with 100% identity to the Mylip/Idol gene.

A total of 151 sense and 151 antisense human Mylip/Idol derived siRNA oligos were synthesized and formed into duplexes. The oligos are presented in Tables 3 and 5 (human Mylip/Idol). In addition, 33 sense and 33 antisense rat Mylip/Idol derived siRNA oligos were synthesized and formed into duplexes (see e.g., Tables 4 and 6).

TABLE 3 Sense and antisense strand sequences of human Mylip/Idol dsRNAs position of Strand ID 5′ base on (S = transcript Sequence with 3′ sense; (NM_013262.3, SEQ dinucleotide SEQ AS = SEQ ID ID overhang ID antisense) NO: 644) Sequence (5′ to 3′) NO: (5′ to 3′) NO: S 240 GCUGUGUUAUGUGACGAGG 20 GCUGUGUUAUGUGACGAGG 94 NN AS 240 CCUCGUCACAUAACACAGC 21 CCUCGUCACAUAACACAGC 95 NN S 241 CUGUGUUAUGUGACGAGGC 22 CUGUGUUAUGUGACGAGGC 96 NN AS 241 GCCUCGUCACAUAACACAG 23 GCCUCGUCACAUAACACAG 97 NN S 244 UGUUAUGUGACGAGGCCGG 24 UGUUAUGUGACGAGGCCGG 98 NN AS 244 CCGGCCUCGUCACAUAACA 25 CCGGCCUCGUCACAUAACA 99 NN S 245 GUUAUGUGACGAGGCCGGA 26 GUUAUGUGACGAGGCCGGA 100 NN AS 245 UCCGGCCUCGUCACAUAAC 27 UCCGGCCUCGUCACAUAAC 101 NN S 246 UUAUGUGACGAGGCCGGAC 28 UUAUGUGACGAGGCCGGAC 102 NN AS 246 GUCCGGCCUCGUCACAUAA 29 GUCCGGCCUCGUCACAUAA 103 NN S 247 UAUGUGACGAGGCCGGACG 30 UAUGUGACGAGGCCGGACG 104 NN AS 247 CGUCCGGCCUCGUCACAUA 31 CGUCCGGCCUCGUCACAUA 105 NN S 248 AUGUGACGAGGCCGGACGC 32 AUGUGACGAGGCCGGACGC 106 NN AS 248 GCGUCCGGCCUCGUCACAU 33 GCGUCCGGCCUCGUCACAU 107 NN S 249 UGUGACGAGGCCGGACGCG 34 UGUGACGAGGCCGGACGCG 108 NN AS 249 CGCGUCCGGCCUCGUCACA 35 CGCGUCCGGCCUCGUCACA 109 NN S 290 AGGCGAAAGCCAACGGCGA 36 AGGCGAAAGCCAACGGCGA 110 NN AS 290 UCGCCGUUGGCUUUCGCCU 37 UCGCCGUUGGCUUUCGCCU 111 NN S 291 GGCGAAAGCCAACGGCGAG 38 GGCGAAAGCCAACGGCGAG 112 NN AS 291 CUCGCCGUUGGCUUUCGCC 39 CUCGCCGUUGGCUUUCGCC 113 NN S 331 AGGCGACUGGGAAUCAUAG 40 AGGCGACUGGGAAUCAUAG 114 NN AS 331 CUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCCU 41 CUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCCU 115 NN S 332 GGCGACUGGGAAUCAUAGA 42 GGCGACUGGGAAUCAUAGA 116 NN AS 332 UCUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCC 43 UCUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCC 117 NN S 333 GCGACUGGGAAUCAUAGAA 44 GCGACUGGGAAUCAUAGAA 118 NN AS 333 UUCUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGC 45 UUCUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGC 119 NN S 368 UGCAGUUUACGGGUAGCAA 46 UGCAGUUUACGGGUAGCAA 120 NN AS 368 UUGCUACCCGUAAACUGCA 47 UUGCUACCCGUAAACUGCA 121 NN S 369 GCAGUUUACGGGUAGCAAA 48 GCAGUUUACGGGUAGCAAA 122 NN AS 369 UUUGCUACCCGUAAACUGC 49 UUUGCUACCCGUAAACUGC 123 NN S 370 CAGUUUACGGGUAGCAAAG 50 CAGUUUACGGGUAGCAAAG 124 NN AS 370 CUUUGCUACCCGUAAACUG 51 CUUUGCUACCCGUAAACUG 125 NN S 371 AGUUUACGGGUAGCAAAGG 52 AGUUUACGGGUAGCAAAGG 126 NN AS 371 CCUUUGCUACCCGUAAACU 53 CCUUUGCUACCCGUAAACU 127 NN S 372 GUUUACGGGUAGCAAAGGU 54 GUUUACGGGUAGCAAAGGU 128 NN AS 372 ACCUUUGCUACCCGUAAAC 55 ACCUUUGCUACCCGUAAAC 129 NN S 373 UUUACGGGUAGCAAAGGUG 56 UUUACGGGUAGCAAAGGUG 130 NN AS 373 CACCUUUGCUACCCGUAAA 57 CACCUUUGCUACCCGUAAA 131 NN S 386 AAGGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCU 58 AAGGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCU 132 NN AS 386 AGCCAUAAACUUUCACCUU 59 AGCCAUAAACUUUCACCUU 133 NN S 387 AGGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCUA 60 AGGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCUA 134 NN AS 387 UAGCCAUAAACUUUCACCU 61 UAGCCAUAAACUUUCACCU 135 NN S 388 GGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCUAA 62 GGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCUAA 136 NN AS 388 UUAGCCAUAAACUUUCACC 63 UUAGCCAUAAACUUUCACC 137 NN S 393 AAGUUUAUGGCUAAACCUG 64 AAGUUUAUGGCUAAACCUG 138 NN AS 393 CAGGUUUAGCCAUAAACUU 65 CAGGUUUAGCCAUAAACUU 139 NN S 395 GUUUAUGGCUAAACCUGAG 66 GUUUAUGGCUAAACCUGAG 140 NN AS 395 CUCAGGUUUAGCCAUAAAC 67 CUCAGGUUUAGCCAUAAAC 141 NN S 434 UGGAUGGGCUAGCCCCUUA 68 UGGAUGGGCUAGCCCCUUA 142 NN AS 434 UAAGGGGCUAGCCCAUCCA 69 UAAGGGGCUAGCCCAUCCA 143 NN S 435 GGAUGGGCUAGCCCCUUAC 70 GGAUGGGCUAGCCCCUUAC 144 NN AS 435 GUAAGGGGCUAGCCCAUCC 71 GUAAGGGGCUAGCCCAUCC 145 NN S 438 UGGGCUAGCCCCUUACAGG 72 UGGGCUAGCCCCUUACAGG 146 NN AS 438 CCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCCCA 73 CCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCCCA 147 NN S 439 GGGCUAGCCCCUUACAGGC 74 GGGCUAGCCCCUUACAGGC 148 NN AS 439 GCCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCCC 75 GCCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCCC 149 NN S 440 GGCUAGCCCCUUACAGGCU 76 GGCUAGCCCCUUACAGGCU 150 NN AS 440 AGCCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCC 77 AGCCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCC 151 NN S 444 AGCCCCUUACAGGCUUAAA 78 AGCCCCUUACAGGCUUAAA 152 NN AS 444 UUUAAGCCUGUAAGGGGCU 79 UUUAAGCCUGUAAGGGGCU 153 NN S 446 CCCCUUACAGGCUUAAACU 80 CCCCUUACAGGCUUAAACU 154 NN AS 446 AGUUUAAGCCUGUAAGGGG 81 AGUUUAAGCCUGUAAGGGG 155 NN S 498 CUUACAGGAGCAGACUAGG 82 CUUACAGGAGCAGACUAGG 156 NN AS 498 CCUAGUCUGCUCCUGUAAG 83 CCUAGUCUGCUCCUGUAAG 157 NN S 508 CAGACUAGGCAUAUCUUUU 84 CAGACUAGGCAUAUCUUUU 158 NN AS 508 AAAAGAUAUGCCUAGUCUG 85 AAAAGAUAUGCCUAGUCUG 159 NN S 640 ACUGCCAAGUAUAACUAUG 86 ACUGCCAAGUAUAACUAUG 160 NN AS 640 CAUAGUUAUACUUGGCAGU 87 CAUAGUUAUACUUGGCAGU 161 NN S 763 UUGCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAA 88 UUGCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAA 162 NN AS 763 UUGCCGACACAAUCUGCAA 89 UUGCCGACACAAUCUGCAA 163 NN S 764 UGCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAAU 90 UGCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAAU 164 NN AS 764 AUUGCCGACACAAUCUGCA 91 AUUGCCGACACAAUCUGCA 165 NN S 765 GCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAAUG 92 GCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAAUG 166 NN AS 765 CAUUGCCGACACAAUCUGC 93 CAUUGCCGACACAAUCUGC 167 NN S 233 CAGCCAUGCUGUGUUAUGU 648 CAGCCAUGCUGUGUUAUGU 876 NN AS 233 ACAUAACACAGCAUGGCUG 649 ACAUAACACAGCAUGGCUG 877 NN S 330 CAGGCGACUGGGAAUCAUA 650 CAGGCGACUGGGAAUCAUA 878 NN AS 330 UAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCCUG 651 UAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCCUG 879 NN S 335 GACUGGGAAUCAUAGAAGU 652 GACUGGGAAUCAUAGAAGU 880 NN AS 335 ACUUCUAUGAUUCCCAGUC 653 ACUUCUAUGAUUCCCAGUC 881 NN S 336 ACUGGGAAUCAUAGAAGUU 654 ACUGGGAAUCAUAGAAGUU 882 NN AS 336 AACUUCUAUGAUUCCCAGU 655 AACUUCUAUGAUUCCCAGU 883 NN S 341 GAAUCAUAGAAGUUGACUA 656 GAAUCAUAGAAGUUGACUA 884 NN AS 341 UAGUCAACUUCUAUGAUUC 657 UAGUCAACUUCUAUGAUUC 885 NN S 404 UAAACCUGAGAAACCGGAU 658 UAAACCUGAGAAACCGGAU 886 NN AS 404 AUCCGGUUUCUCAGGUUUA 659 AUCCGGUUUCUCAGGUUUA 887 NN S 454 AGGCUUAAACUUAGAGUCA 660 AGGCUUAAACUUAGAGUCA 888 NN AS 454 UGACUCUAAGUUUAAGCCU 661 UGACUCUAAGUUUAAGCCU 889 NN S 455 GGCUUAAACUUAGAGUCAA 662 GGCUUAAACUUAGAGUCAA 890 NN AS 455 UUGACUCUAAGUUUAAGCC 663 UUGACUCUAAGUUUAAGCC 891 NN S 501 ACAGGAGCAGACUAGGCAU 664 ACAGGAGCAGACUAGGCAU 892 NN AS 501 AUGCCUAGUCUGCUCCUGU 665 AUGCCUAGUCUGCUCCUGU 893 NN S 502 CAGGAGCAGACUAGGCAUA 666 CAGGAGCAGACUAGGCAUA 894 NN AS 502 UAUGCCUAGUCUGCUCCUG 667 UAUGCCUAGUCUGCUCCUG 895 NN S 505 GAGCAGACUAGGCAUAUCU 668 GAGCAGACUAGGCAUAUCU 896 NN AS 505 AGAUAUGCCUAGUCUGCUC 669 AGAUAUGCCUAGUCUGCUC 897 NN S 507 GCAGACUAGGCAUAUCUUU 670 GCAGACUAGGCAUAUCUUU 898 NN AS 507 AAAGAUAUGCCUAGUCUGC 671 AAAGAUAUGCCUAGUCUGC 899 NN S 550 UUGGCAGGCCACCUCUUGU 672 UUGGCAGGCCACCUCUUGU 900 NN AS 550 ACAAGAGGUGGCCUGCCAA 673 ACAAGAGGUGGCCUGCCAA 901 NN S 694 UUGAACAGCAUUGUUGCAA 674 UUGAACAGCAUUGUUGCAA 902 NN AS 694 UUGCAACAAUGCUGUUCAA 675 UUGCAACAAUGCUGUUCAA 903 NN S 746 CAGCUGAAUACCAAGUUUU 676 CAGCUGAAUACCAAGUUUU 904 NN AS 746 AAAACUUGGUAUUCAGCUG 677 AAAACUUGGUAUUCAGCUG 905 NN S 774 GUCGGCAAUGGAAAACUAU 678 GUCGGCAAUGGAAAACUAU 906 NN AS 774 AUAGUUUUCCAUUGCCGAC 679 AUAGUUUUCCAUUGCCGAC 907 NN S 788 ACUAUGGCAUAGAAUGGCA 680 ACUAUGGCAUAGAAUGGCA 908 NN AS 788 UGCCAUUCUAUGCCAUAGU 681 UGCCAUUCUAUGCCAUAGU 909 NN S 807 UUCUGUGCGGGAUAGCGAA 682 UUCUGUGCGGGAUAGCGAA 910 NN AS 807 UUCGCUAUCCCGCACAGAA 683 UUCGCUAUCCCGCACAGAA 911 NN S 850 GGACCUGAAGGAAUCUCAA 684 GGACCUGAAGGAAUCUCAA 912 NN AS 850 UUGAGAUUCCUUCAGGUCC 685 UUGAGAUUCCUUCAGGUCC 913 NN S 873 UAAAGAUGACUUUAGCCCA 686 UAAAGAUGACUUUAGCCCA 914 NN AS 873 UGGGCUAAAGUCAUCUUUA 687 UGGGCUAAAGUCAUCUUUA 915 NN S 874 AAAGAUGACUUUAGCCCAA 688 AAAGAUGACUUUAGCCCAA 916 NN AS 874 UUGGGCUAAAGUCAUCUUU 689 UUGGGCUAAAGUCAUCUUU 917 NN S 885 UAGCCCAAUUAAUAGGAUA 690 UAGCCCAAUUAAUAGGAUA 918 NN AS 885 UAUCCUAUUAAUUGGGCUA 691 UAUCCUAUUAAUUGGGCUA 919 NN S 889 CCAAUUAAUAGGAUAGCUU 692 CCAAUUAAUAGGAUAGCUU 920 NN AS 889 AAGCUAUCCUAUUAAUUGG 693 AAGCUAUCCUAUUAAUUGG 921 NN S 894 UAAUAGGAUAGCUUAUCCU 694 UAAUAGGAUAGCUUAUCCU 922 NN AS 894 AGGAUAAGCUAUCCUAUUA 695 AGGAUAAGCUAUCCUAUUA 923 NN S 978 CAGCAUCGUGCUCUUGUUU 696 CAGCAUCGUGCUCUUGUUU 924 NN AS 978 AAACAAGAGCACGAUGCUG 697 AAACAAGAGCACGAUGCUG 925 NN S 981 CAUCGUGCUCUUGUUUAAA 698 CAUCGUGCUCUUGUUUAAA 926 NN AS 981 UUUAAACAAGAGCACGAUG 699 UUUAAACAAGAGCACGAUG 927 NN S 1024 GGGCUCUACCGAGCGAUAA 700 GGGCUCUACCGAGCGAUAA 928 NN AS 1024 UUAUCGCUCGGUAGAGCCC 701 UUAUCGCUCGGUAGAGCCC 929 NN S 1026 GCUCUACCGAGCGAUAACA 702 GCUCUACCGAGCGAUAACA 930 NN AS 1026 UGUUAUCGCUCGGUAGAGC 703 UGUUAUCGCUCGGUAGAGC 931 NN S 1028 UCUACCGAGCGAUAACAGA 704 UCUACCGAGCGAUAACAGA 932 NN AS 1028 UCUGUUAUCGCUCGGUAGA 705 UCUGUUAUCGCUCGGUAGA 933 NN S 1030 UACCGAGCGAUAACAGAGA 706 UACCGAGCGAUAACAGAGA 934 NN AS 1030 UCUCUGUUAUCGCUCGGUA 707 UCUCUGUUAUCGCUCGGUA 935 NN S 1042 ACAGAGACGCACGCAUUCU 708 ACAGAGACGCACGCAUUCU 936 NN AS 1042 AGAAUGCGUGCGUCUCUGU 709 AGAAUGCGUGCGUCUCUGU 937 NN S 1113 GAAGGGCCACUUGGCAUCU 710 GAAGGGCCACUUGGCAUCU 938 NN AS 1113 AGAUGCCAAGUGGCCCUUC 711 AGAUGCCAAGUGGCCCUUC 939 NN S 1190 CAUCAAAGGAGGUGUAUGA 712 CAUCAAAGGAGGUGUAUGA 940 NN AS 1190 UCAUACACCUCCUUUGAUG 713 UCAUACACCUCCUUUGAUG 941 NN S 1237 GGCGUUGUGGACCUCGUUU 714 GGCGUUGUGGACCUCGUUU 942 NN AS 1237 AAACGAGGUCCACAACGCC 715 AAACGAGGUCCACAACGCC 943 NN S 1240 GUUGUGGACCUCGUUUCAA 716 GUUGUGGACCUCGUUUCAA 944 NN AS 1240 UUGAAACGAGGUCCACAAC 717 UUGAAACGAGGUCCACAAC 945 NN S 1242 UGUGGACCUCGUUUCAAGA 718 UGUGGACCUCGUUUCAAGA 946 NN AS 1242 UCUUGAAACGAGGUCCACA 719 UCUUGAAACGAGGUCCACA 947 NN S 1279 CACUCGCCUCUGAAGUCCU 720 CACUCGCCUCUGAAGUCCU 948 NN AS 1279 AGGACUUCAGAGGCGAGUG 721 AGGACUUCAGAGGCGAGUG 949 NN S 1515 GCAUGUCCAGCACGUCUAU 722 GCAUGUCCAGCACGUCUAU 950 NN AS 1515 AUAGACGUGCUGGACAUGC 723 AUAGACGUGCUGGACAUGC 951 NN S 1517 AUGUCCAGCACGUCUAUCU 724 AUGUCCAGCACGUCUAUCU 952 NN AS 1517 AGAUAGACGUGCUGGACAU 725 AGAUAGACGUGCUGGACAU 953 NN S 1555 CUCAAUCUGACUGUAAUCU 726 CUCAAUCUGACUGUAAUCU 954 NN AS 1555 AGAUUACAGUCAGAUUGAG 727 AGAUUACAGUCAGAUUGAG 955 NN S 1557 CAAUCUGACUGUAAUCUAA 728 CAAUCUGACUGUAAUCUAA 956 NN AS 1557 UUAGAUUACAGUCAGAUUG 729 UUAGAUUACAGUCAGAUUG 957 NN S 1558 AAUCUGACUGUAAUCUAAU 730 AAUCUGACUGUAAUCUAAU 958 NN AS 1558 AUUAGAUUACAGUCAGAUU 731 AUUAGAUUACAGUCAGAUU 959 NN S 1616 UGCACUAUUAUAAACUAUU 732 UGCACUAUUAUAAACUAUU 960 NN AS 1616 AAUAGUUUAUAAUAGUGCA 733 AAUAGUUUAUAAUAGUGCA 961 NN S 1715 AUAACACAGCUACUCCUCA 734 AUAACACAGCUACUCCUCA 962 NN AS 1715 UGAGGAGUAGCUGUGUUAU 735 UGAGGAGUAGCUGUGUUAU 963 NN S 1740 AAACAUAUCCAUGCGUAGA 736 AAACAUAUCCAUGCGUAGA 964 NN AS 1740 UCUACGCAUGGAUAUGUUU 737 UCUACGCAUGGAUAUGUUU 965 NN S 1741 AACAUAUCCAUGCGUAGAA 738 AACAUAUCCAUGCGUAGAA 966 NN AS 1741 UUCUACGCAUGGAUAUGUU 739 UUCUACGCAUGGAUAUGUU 967 NN S 1744 AUAUCCAUGCGUAGAAUCA 740 AUAUCCAUGCGUAGAAUCA 968 NN AS 1744 UGAUUCUACGCAUGGAUAU 741 UGAUUCUACGCAUGGAUAU 969 NN S 1745 UAUCCAUGCGUAGAAUCAA 742 UAUCCAUGCGUAGAAUCAA 970 NN AS 1745 UUGAUUCUACGCAUGGAUA 743 UUGAUUCUACGCAUGGAUA 971 NN S 1753 CGUAGAAUCAACAACUCCA 744 CGUAGAAUCAACAACUCCA 972 NN AS 1753 UGGAGUUGUUGAUUCUACG 745 UGGAGUUGUUGAUUCUACG 973 NN S 1837 CUAGUAAAGGAAUAGGUAA 746 CUAGUAAAGGAAUAGGUAA 974 NN AS 1837 UUACCUAUUCCUUUACUAG 747 UUACCUAUUCCUUUACUAG 975 NN S 1838 UAGUAAAGGAAUAGGUAAA 748 UAGUAAAGGAAUAGGUAAA 976 NN AS 1838 UUUACCUAUUCCUUUACUA 749 UUUACCUAUUCCUUUACUA 977 NN S 1842 AAAGGAAUAGGUAAAGUCU 750 AAAGGAAUAGGUAAAGUCU 978 NN AS 1842 AGACUUUACCUAUUCCUUU 751 AGACUUUACCUAUUCCUUU 979 NN S 1843 AAGGAAUAGGUAAAGUCUU 752 AAGGAAUAGGUAAAGUCUU 980 NN AS 1843 AAGACUUUACCUAUUCCUU 753 AAGACUUUACCUAUUCCUU 981 NN S 1871 UGAAGUGGCAACAUAGCCA 754 UGAAGUGGCAACAUAGCCA 982 NN AS 1871 UGGCUAUGUUGCCACUUCA 755 UGGCUAUGUUGCCACUUCA 983 NN S 1872 GAAGUGGCAACAUAGCCAA 756 GAAGUGGCAACAUAGCCAA 984 NN AS 1872 UUGGCUAUGUUGCCACUUC 757 UUGGCUAUGUUGCCACUUC 985 NN S 1893 AGUUGGGUACCUUUUAGGA 758 AGUUGGGUACCUUUUAGGA 986 NN AS 1893 UCCUAAAAGGUACCCAACU 759 UCCUAAAAGGUACCCAACU 987 NN S 1915 GAUGUUGUAAGUCUCCUUA 760 GAUGUUGUAAGUCUCCUUA 988 NN AS 1915 UAAGGAGACUUACAACAUC 761 UAAGGAGACUUACAACAUC 989 NN S 1921 GUAAGUCUCCUUAAUGUAU 762 GUAAGUCUCCUUAAUGUAU 990 NN AS 1921 AUACAUUAAGGAGACUUAC 763 AUACAUUAAGGAGACUUAC 991 NN S 1933 AAUGUAUCCUGAGGUAAGU 764 AAUGUAUCCUGAGGUAAGU 992 NN AS 1933 ACUUACCUCAGGAUACAUU 765 ACUUACCUCAGGAUACAUU 993 NN S 1939 UCCUGAGGUAAGUUUCCUA 766 UCCUGAGGUAAGUUUCCUA 994 NN AS 1939 UAGGAAACUUACCUCAGGA 767 UAGGAAACUUACCUCAGGA 995 NN S 1954 CCUACUGGCAGCAGAUUUU 768 CCUACUGGCAGCAGAUUUU 996 NN AS 1954 AAAAUCUGCUGCCAGUAGG 769 AAAAUCUGCUGCCAGUAGG 997 NN S 2046 UUUUGUAAAUUGUUGUCGU 770 UUUUGUAAAUUGUUGUCGU 998 NN AS 2046 ACGACAACAAUUUACAAAA 771 ACGACAACAAUUUACAAAA 999 NN S 2049 UGUAAAUUGUUGUCGUUUU 772 UGUAAAUUGUUGUCGUUUU 1000 NN AS 2049 AAAACGACAACAAUUUACA 773 AAAACGACAACAAUUUACA 1001 NN S 2103 GAUUGGAAGGCAAACAGGU 774 GAUUGGAAGGCAAACAGGU 1002 NN AS 2103 ACCUGUUUGCCUUCCAAUC 775 ACCUGUUUGCCUUCCAAUC 1003 NN S 2109 AAGGCAAACAGGUUUACAA 776 AAGGCAAACAGGUUUACAA 1004 NN AS 2109 UUGUAAACCUGUUUGCCUU 777 UUGUAAACCUGUUUGCCUU 1005 NN S 2159 UGUUGUCAGAUUUAAACCA 778 UGUUGUCAGAUUUAAACCA 1006 NN AS 2159 UGGUUUAAAUCUGACAACA 779 UGGUUUAAAUCUGACAACA 1007 NN S 2172 AAACCAGUGUGGCUAGUAA 780 AAACCAGUGUGGCUAGUAA 1008 NN AS 2172 UUACUAGCCACACUGGUUU 781 UUACUAGCCACACUGGUUU 1009 NN S 2206 AUGUGGGUGGCUCCCUAUU 782 AUGUGGGUGGCUCCCUAUU 1010 NN AS 2206 AAUAGGGAGCCACCCACAU 783 AAUAGGGAGCCACCCACAU 1011 NN S 2248 CCCCACAAGCCUUUCGAUU 784 CCCCACAAGCCUUUCGAUU 1012 NN AS 2248 AAUCGAAAGGCUUGUGGGG 785 AAUCGAAAGGCUUGUGGGG 1013 NN S 2256 GCCUUUCGAUUAUAAAAUA 786 GCCUUUCGAUUAUAAAAUA 1014 NN AS 2256 UAUUUUAUAAUCGAAAGGC 787 UAUUUUAUAAUCGAAAGGC 1015 NN S 2262 CGAUUAUAAAAUACUACCA 788 CGAUUAUAAAAUACUACCA 1016 NN AS 2262 UGGUAGUAUUUUAUAAUCG 789 UGGUAGUAUUUUAUAAUCG 1017 NN S 2283 CUUGUUAUAAGAUUACUGU 790 CUUGUUAUAAGAUUACUGU 1018 NN AS 2283 ACAGUAAUCUUAUAACAAG 791 ACAGUAAUCUUAUAACAAG 1019 NN S 2293 GAUUACUGUGGAGUAGUCA 792 GAUUACUGUGGAGUAGUCA 1020 NN AS 2293 UGACUACUCCACAGUAAUC 793 UGACUACUCCACAGUAAUC 1021 NN S 2296 UACUGUGGAGUAGUCAAGU 794 UACUGUGGAGUAGUCAAGU 1022 NN AS 2296 ACUUGACUACUCCACAGUA 795 ACUUGACUACUCCACAGUA 1023 NN S 2428 GUACAACUGAGGGUAGUUA 796 GUACAACUGAGGGUAGUUA 1024 NN AS 2428 UAACUACCCUCAGUUGUAC 797 UAACUACCCUCAGUUGUAC 1025 NN S 2429 UACAACUGAGGGUAGUUAA 798 UACAACUGAGGGUAGUUAA 1026 NN AS 2429 UUAACUACCCUCAGUUGUA 799 UUAACUACCCUCAGUUGUA 1027 NN S 2431 CAACUGAGGGUAGUUAACU 800 CAACUGAGGGUAGUUAACU 1028 NN AS 2431 AGUUAACUACCCUCAGUUG 801 AGUUAACUACCCUCAGUUG 1029 NN S 2433 ACUGAGGGUAGUUAACUCA 802 ACUGAGGGUAGUUAACUCA 1030 NN AS 2433 UGAGUUAACUACCCUCAGU 803 UGAGUUAACUACCCUCAGU 1031 NN S 2434 CUGAGGGUAGUUAACUCAU 804 CUGAGGGUAGUUAACUCAU 1032 NN AS 2434 AUGAGUUAACUACCCUCAG 805 AUGAGUUAACUACCCUCAG 1033 NN S 2436 GAGGGUAGUUAACUCAUCA 806 GAGGGUAGUUAACUCAUCA 1034 NN AS 2436 UGAUGAGUUAACUACCCUC 807 UGAUGAGUUAACUACCCUC 1035 NN S 2438 GGGUAGUUAACUCAUCACU 808 GGGUAGUUAACUCAUCACU 1036 NN AS 2438 AGUGAUGAGUUAACUACCC 809 AGUGAUGAGUUAACUACCC 1037 NN S 2439 GGUAGUUAACUCAUCACUU 810 GGUAGUUAACUCAUCACUU 1038 NN AS 2439 AAGUGAUGAGUUAACUACC 811 AAGUGAUGAGUUAACUACC 1039 NN S 2441 UAGUUAACUCAUCACUUCU 812 UAGUUAACUCAUCACUUCU 1040 NN AS 2441 AGAAGUGAUGAGUUAACUA 813 AGAAGUGAUGAGUUAACUA 1041 NN S 2489 UGGUGUUGCUUUGCUUGAA 814 UGGUGUUGCUUUGCUUGAA 1042 NN AS 2489 UUCAAGCAAAGCAACACCA 815 UUCAAGCAAAGCAACACCA 1043 NN S 2523 AUAGCCUUACCAUAAGUAU 816 AUAGCCUUACCAUAAGUAU 1044 NN AS 2523 AUACUUAUGGUAAGGCUAU 817 AUACUUAUGGUAAGGCUAU 1045 NN S 2530 UACCAUAAGUAUUUAGAUA 818 UACCAUAAGUAUUUAGAUA 1046 NN AS 2530 UAUCUAAAUACUUAUGGUA 819 UAUCUAAAUACUUAUGGUA 1047 NN S 2597 AAGUAAGUGCUUAAGUAUU 820 AAGUAAGUGCUUAAGUAUU 1048 NN AS 2597 AAUACUUAAGCACUUACUU 821 AAUACUUAAGCACUUACUU 1049 NN S 2610 AGUAUUAACUUUGGGUUGU 822 AGUAUUAACUUUGGGUUGU 1050 NN AS 2610 ACAACCCAAAGUUAAUACU 823 ACAACCCAAAGUUAAUACU 1051 NN S 2636 GUAUGUUUCGAAGGGGUUU 824 GUAUGUUUCGAAGGGGUUU 1052 NN AS 2636 AAACCCCUUCGAAACAUAC 825 AAACCCCUUCGAAACAUAC 1053 NN S 2717 CUGGUCAGCUAGCAGGUUU 826 CUGGUCAGCUAGCAGGUUU 1054 NN AS 2717 AAACCUGCUAGCUGACCAG 827 AAACCUGCUAGCUGACCAG 1055 NN S 2718 UGGUCAGCUAGCAGGUUUU 828 UGGUCAGCUAGCAGGUUUU 1056 NN AS 2718 AAAACCUGCUAGCUGACCA 829 AAAACCUGCUAGCUGACCA 1057 NN S 2720 GUCAGCUAGCAGGUUUUCU 830 GUCAGCUAGCAGGUUUUCU 1058 NN AS 2720 AGAAAACCUGCUAGCUGAC 831 AGAAAACCUGCUAGCUGAC 1059 NN S 2740 GGAUGUCGGGAGACCUAGA 832 GGAUGUCGGGAGACCUAGA 1060 NN AS 2740 UCUAGGUCUCCCGACAUCC 833 UCUAGGUCUCCCGACAUCC 1061 NN S 2741 GAUGUCGGGAGACCUAGAU 834 GAUGUCGGGAGACCUAGAU 1062 NN AS 2741 AUCUAGGUCUCCCGACAUC 835 AUCUAGGUCUCCCGACAUC 1063 NN S 2743 UGUCGGGAGACCUAGAUGA 836 UGUCGGGAGACCUAGAUGA 1064 NN AS 2743 UCAUCUAGGUCUCCCGACA 837 UCAUCUAGGUCUCCCGACA 1065 NN S 2768 CGGGUGCAAUACUAGCUAA 838 CGGGUGCAAUACUAGCUAA 1066 NN AS 2768 UUAGCUAGUAUUGCACCCG 839 UUAGCUAGUAUUGCACCCG 1067 NN S 2771 GUGCAAUACUAGCUAAGGU 840 GUGCAAUACUAGCUAAGGU 1068 NN AS 2771 ACCUUAGCUAGUAUUGCAC 841 ACCUUAGCUAGUAUUGCAC 1069 NN S 2772 UGCAAUACUAGCUAAGGUA 842 UGCAAUACUAGCUAAGGUA 1070 NN AS 2772 UACCUUAGCUAGUAUUGCA 843 UACCUUAGCUAGUAUUGCA 1071 NN S 2773 GCAAUACUAGCUAAGGUAA 844 GCAAUACUAGCUAAGGUAA 1072 NN AS 2773 UUACCUUAGCUAGUAUUGC 845 UUACCUUAGCUAGUAUUGC 1073 NN S 2777 UACUAGCUAAGGUAAAGCU 846 UACUAGCUAAGGUAAAGCU 1074 NN AS 2777 AGCUUUACCUUAGCUAGUA 847 AGCUUUACCUUAGCUAGUA 1075 NN S 2778 ACUAGCUAAGGUAAAGCUA 848 ACUAGCUAAGGUAAAGCUA 1076 NN AS 2778 UAGCUUUACCUUAGCUAGU 849 UAGCUUUACCUUAGCUAGU 1077 NN S 2780 UAGCUAAGGUAAAGCUAGA 850 UAGCUAAGGUAAAGCUAGA 1078 NN AS 2780 UCUAGCUUUACCUUAGCUA 851 UCUAGCUUUACCUUAGCUA 1079 NN S 2852 AAUGUAGCAGUAAUGUGUU 852 AAUGUAGCAGUAAUGUGUU 1080 NN AS 2852 AACACAUUACUGCUACAUU 853 AACACAUUACUGCUACAUU 1081 NN S 2929 GGCACAUAUUAGCAUAUAA 854 GGCACAUAUUAGCAUAUAA 1082 NN AS 2929 UUAUAUGCUAAUAUGUGCC 855 UUAUAUGCUAAUAUGUGCC 1083 NN S 2988 AAAUAAUGUUUCCACGUAA 856 AAAUAAUGUUUCCACGUAA 1084 NN AS 2988 UUACGUGGAAACAUUAUUU 857 UUACGUGGAAACAUUAUUU 1085 NN S 2991 UAAUGUUUCCACGUAAAGA 858 UAAUGUUUCCACGUAAAGA 1086 NN AS 2991 UCUUUACGUGGAAACAUUA 859 UCUUUACGUGGAAACAUUA 1087 NN S 2992 AAUGUUUCCACGUAAAGAA 860 AAUGUUUCCACGUAAAGAA 1088 NN AS 2992 UUCUUUACGUGGAAACAUU 861 UUCUUUACGUGGAAACAUU 1089 NN S 3006 AAGAACUCUGUUAUAUCCU 862 AAGAACUCUGUUAUAUCCU 1090 NN AS 3006 AGGAUAUAACAGAGUUCUU 863 AGGAUAUAACAGAGUUCUU 1091 NN S 3007 AGAACUCUGUUAUAUCCUA 864 AGAACUCUGUUAUAUCCUA 1092 NN AS 3007 UAGGAUAUAACAGAGUUCU 865 UAGGAUAUAACAGAGUUCU 1093 NN S 3034 UGUCUUUUAUAUUCGGGAU 866 UGUCUUUUAUAUUCGGGAU 1094 NN AS 3034 AUCCCGAAUAUAAAAGACA 867 AUCCCGAAUAUAAAAGACA 1095 NN S 3035 GUCUUUUAUAUUCGGGAUA 868 GUCUUUUAUAUUCGGGAUA 1096 NN AS 3035 UAUCCCGAAUAUAAAAGAC 869 UAUCCCGAAUAUAAAAGAC 1097 NN S 3036 UCUUUUAUAUUCGGGAUAA 870 UCUUUUAUAUUCGGGAUAA 1098 NN AS 3036 UUAUCCCGAAUAUAAAAGA 871 UUAUCCCGAAUAUAAAAGA 1099 NN S 3037 CUUUUAUAUUCGGGAUAAU 872 CUUUUAUAUUCGGGAUAAU 1100 NN AS 3037 AUUAUCCCGAAUAUAAAAG 873 AUUAUCCCGAAUAUAAAAG 1101 NN S 3049 GGAUAAUAAAGACUUUAAA 874 GGAUAAUAAAGACUUUAAA 1102 NN AS 3049 UUUAAAGUCUUUAUUAUCC 875 UUUAAAGUCUUUAUUAUCC 1103 NN

TABLE 4 Sense and antisense strand sequences of mouse and rat Mylip/Idol dsRNAs Strand ID position of 5′ (S = base on sense; transcript SEQ Sequence with 3′ SEQ AS = (NM_153789.3, ID dinucleotide overhang ID antisense) SEQ ID NO: 645) Sequence (5′ to 3′) NO: (5′ to 3′) NO: S 14 GAGCGGCGCGGCCGUGUAG 168 GAGCGGCGCGGCCGUGUAGNN 234 AS 14 CUACACGGCCGCGCCGCUC 169 CUACACGGCCGCGCCGCUCNN 235 S 26 CGUGUAGCUCCCGGGAACU 170 CGUGUAGCUCCCGGGAACUNN 236 AS 26 AGUUCCCGGGAGCUACACG 171 AGUUCCCGGGAGCUACACGNN 237 S 218 GCUGUGCUAUGUGACGAGG 172 GCUGUGCUAUGUGACGAGGNN 238 AS 218 CCUCGUCACAUAGCACAGC 173 CCUCGUCACAUAGCACAGCNN 239 S 220 UGUGCUAUGUGACGAGGCC 174 UGUGCUAUGUGACGAGGCCNN 240 AS 220 GGCCUCGUCACAUAGCACA 175 GGCCUCGUCACAUAGCACANN 241 S 485 GCAGACAAGGCAUAUCUUU 176 GCAGACAAGGCAUAUCUUUNN 242 AS 485 AAAGAUAUGCCUUGUCUGC 177 AAAGAUAUGCCUUGUCUGCNN 243 S 764 GAACUACGGCAUAGAGUGG 178 GAACUACGGCAUAGAGUGGNN 244 AS 764 CCACUCUAUGCCGUAGUUC 179 CCACUCUAUGCCGUAGUUCNN 245 S 766 ACUACGGCAUAGAGUGGCA 180 ACUACGGCAUAGAGUGGCANN 246 AS 766 UGCCACUCUAUGCCGUAGU 181 UGCCACUCUAUGCCGUAGUNN 247 S 857 GGACUUUAGCCCUAUUAAC 182 GGACUUUAGCCCUAUUAACNN 248 AS 857 GUUAAUAGGGCUAAAGUCC 183 GUUAAUAGGGCUAAAGUCCNN 249 S 858 GACUUUAGCCCUAUUAACA 184 GACUUUAGCCCUAUUAACANN 250 AS 858 UGUUAAUAGGGCUAAAGUC 185 UGUUAAUAGGGCUAAAGUCNN 251 S 867 CCUAUUAACAGGAUAGCUU 186 CCUAUUAACAGGAUAGCUUNN 252 AS 867 AAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUAGG 187 AAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUAGGNN 253 S 869 UAUUAACAGGAUAGCUUAU 188 UAUUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUNN 254 AS 869 AUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUA 189 AUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUANN 255 S 870 AUUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUC 190 AUUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUCNN 256 AS 870 GAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAAU 191 GAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUNN 257 S 871 UUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUCC 192 UUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUCCNN 258 AS 871 GGAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAA 193 GGAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAANN 259 S 873 AACAGGAUAGCUUAUCCUG 194 AACAGGAUAGCUUAUCCUGNN 260 AS 873 CAGGAUAAGCUAUCCUGUU 195 CAGGAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUNN 261 S 875 CAGGAUAGCUUAUCCUGUG 196 CAGGAUAGCUUAUCCUGUGNN 262 AS 875 CACAGGAUAAGCUAUCCUG 197 CACAGGAUAAGCUAUCCUGNN 263 S 919 AGAAUGUCUACUUGACCGU 198 AGAAUGUCUACUUGACCGUNN 264 AS 919 ACGGUCAAGUAGACAUUCU 199 ACGGUCAAGUAGACAUUCUNN 265 S 92 UGUCUACUUGACCGUCACC 200 UGUCUACUUGACCGUCACCNN 266 AS 923 GGUGACGGUCAAGUAGACA 201 GGUGACGGUCAAGUAGACANN 267 S 1815 UCAAGUAAAGGAGUAGAUA 202 UCAAGUAAAGGAGUAGAUANN 268 AS 1815 UAUCUACUCCUUUACUUGA 203 UAUCUACUCCUUUACUUGANN 269 S 1856 GGCAACAUGGCCCAACCGU 204 GGCAACAUGGCCCAACCGUNN 270 AS 1856 ACGGUUGGGCCAUGUUGCC 205 ACGGUUGGGCCAUGUUGCCNN 271 S 1859 AACAUGGCCCAACCGUGGG 206 AACAUGGCCCAACCGUGGGNN 272 AS 1859 CCCACGGUUGGGCCAUGUU 207 CCCACGGUUGGGCCAUGUUNN 273 S 1861 CAUGGCCCAACCGUGGGCA 208 CAUGGCCCAACCGUGGGCANN 274 AS 1861 UGCCCACGGUUGGGCCAUG 209 UGCCCACGGUUGGGCCAUGNN 275 S 1968 UUGUAUGGUCAUGGAGCGC 210 UUGUAUGGUCAUGGAGCGCNN 276 AS 1968 GCGCUCCAUGACCAUACAA 211 GCGCUCCAUGACCAUACAANN 277 S 1969 UGUAUGGUCAUGGAGCGCU 212 UGUAUGGUCAUGGAGCGCUNN 278 AS 1969 AGCGCUCCAUGACCAUACA 213 AGCGCUCCAUGACCAUACANN 279 S 2512 UCUACAGCCUUAUAGGUUU 214 UCUACAGCCUUAUAGGUUUNN 280 AS 2512 AAACCUAUAAGGCUGUAGA 215 AAACCUAUAAGGCUGUAGANN 281 S 2695 GAAGCUAGUGAGCUAGGGG 216 GAAGCUAGUGAGCUAGGGGNN 282 AS 2695 CCCCUAGCUCACUAGCUUC 217 CCCCUAGCUCACUAGCUUCNN 283 S 2744 CCUCAUCGGGUGCAAUACU 218 CCUCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUNN 284 AS 2744 AGUAUUGCACCCGAUGAGG 219 AGUAUUGCACCCGAUGAGGNN 285 S 2745 CUCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUA 220 CUCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUANN 286 AS 2745 UAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGAG 221 UAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGAGNN 287 S 2746 UCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUAG 222 UCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGNN 288 AS 2746 CUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGA 223 CUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGANN 289 S 2747 CAUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGC 224 CAUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCNN 290 AS 2747 GCUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUG 225 GCUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGNN 291 S 2748 AUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCU 226 AUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCUNN 292 AS 2748 AGCUAGUAUUGCACCCGAU 227 AGCUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUNN 293 S 2749 UCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCUA 228 UCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCUANN 294 AS 2749 UAGCUAGUAUUGCACCCGA 229 UAGCUAGUAUUGCACCCGANN 295 S 2918 AUUAGCAUAUAAGCCUUUA 230 AUUAGCAUAUAAGCCUUUANN 296 AS 2918 UAAAGGCUUAUAUGCUAAU 231 UAAAGGCUUAUAUGCUAAUNN 297 S 2919 UUAGCAUAUAAGCCUUUAU 232 UUAGCAUAUAAGCCUUUAUNN 298 AS 2919 AUAAAGGCUUAUAUGCUAA 233 AUAAAGGCUUAUAUGCUAANN 299

TABLE 5 Sense and antisense strand sequences of human Mylip/Idol dsRNAs position of 5′ Sequence with Sequence with Strand ID base on 3′ deoxythimidine 3′ deoxythimidine (S = sense; transcript overhang SEQ overhang SEQ AS = (NM_013262.3, (phosphodiester ID (phosphorothioate ID antisense) SEQ ID NO: 644) linkage) (5′ to 3′) NO: linkage) (5′ to 3′) NO: S 240 GCUGUGUUAUGUGACGAGGdT 300 GCUGUGUUAUGUGACGAGGdTs 374 dT dT AS 240 CCUCGUCACAUAACACAGCdT 301 CCUCGUCACAUAACACAGCdTs 375 dT dT S 241 CUGUGUUAUGUGACGAGGCdT 302 CUGUGUUAUGUGACGAGGdTs 376 dT dTC AS 241 GCCUCGUCACAUAACACAGdT 303 GCCUCGUCACAUAACACAGdTs 377 dT dT S 244 UGUUAUGUGACGAGGCCGGdT 304 UGUUAUGUGACGAGGCCGGdTs 378 dT dT AS 244 CCGGCCUCGUCACAUAACAdT 305 CCGGCCUCGUCACAUAACAdTs 379 dT dT S 245 GUUAUGUGACGAGGCCGGAdT 306 GUUAUGUGACGAGGCCGGAdTs 380 dT dT AS 245 UCCGGCCUCGUCACAUAACdT 307 UCCGGCCUCGUCACAUAACdTs 381 dT dT S 246 UUAUGUGACGAGGCCGGACdT 308 UUAUGUGACGAGGCCGGACdTs 382 dT dT AS 246 GUCCGGCCUCGUCACAUAAdT 309 GUCCGGCCUCGUCACAUAAdTs 383 dT dT S 247 UAUGUGACGAGGCCGGACGdT 310 UAUGUGACGAGGCCGGACGdTs 384 dT dT AS 247 CGUCCGGCCUCGUCACAUAdT 311 CGUCCGGCCUCGUCACAUAdTs 385 dT dT S 248 AUGUGACGAGGCCGGACGCdT 312 AUGUGACGAGGCCGGACGCdTs 386 dT dT AS 248 GCGUCCGGCCUCGUCACAUdT 313 GCGUCCGGCCUCGUCACAUdTs 387 dT dT S 249 UGUGACGAGGCCGGACGCGdT 314 UGUGACGAGGCCGGACGCGdTs 388 dT dT AS 249 CGCGUCCGGCCUCGUCACAdT 315 CGCGUCCGGCCUCGUCACAdTs 389 dT dT S 290 AGGCGAAAGCCAACGGCGAdT 316 AGGCGAAAGCCAACGGCGAdTs 390 dT dT AS 290 UCGCCGUUGGCUUUCGCCUdT 317 UCGCCGUUGGCUUUCGCCUdTs 391 dT dT S 291 GGCGAAAGCCAACGGCGAGdT 318 GGCGAAAGCCAACGGCGAGdTs 392 dT dT AS 291 CUCGCCGUUGGCUUUCGCCdT 319 CUCGCCGUUGGCUUUCGCCdTs 393 dT dT S 331 AGGCGACUGGGAAUCAUAGdT 320 AGGCGACUGGGAAUCAUAGdTs 394 dT dT AS 331 CUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCCUdT 321 CUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCCUdTs 395 dT dT S 332 GGCGACUGGGAAUCAUAGAdT 322 GGCGACUGGGAAUCAUAGAdTs 396 dT dT AS 332 UCUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCC 323 UCUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCCdTs 397 dT S 333 GCGACUGGGAAUCAUAGAAdT 324 GCGACUGGGAAUCAUAGAAdTs 398 dT dT AS 333 UUCUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCdT 325 UUCUAUGAUUCCCAGUCGCdTs 399 dT dT S 368 UGCAGUUUACGGGUAGCAAdT 326 UGCAGUUUACGGGUAGCAAdTs 400 dT dT AS 368 UUGCUACCCGUAAACUGCAdT 327 UUGCUACCCGUAAACUGCAdTs 401 dT dT S 369 GCAGUUUACGGGUAGCAAAdT 328 GCAGUUUACGGGUAGCAAAdTs 402 dT dT AS 369 UUUGCUACCCGUAAACUGCdT 329 UUUGCUACCCGUAAACUGCdTs 403 dT dT S 370 CAGUUUACGGGUAGCAAAGdT 330 CAGUUUACGGGUAGCAAAGdTs 404 dT dT AS 370 CUUUGCUACCCGUAAACUGdT 331 CUUUGCUACCCGUAAACUGdTs 405 dT dT S 371 AGUUUACGGGUAGCAAAGGdT 332 AGUUUACGGGUAGCAAAGGdTs 406 dT dT AS 371 CCUUUGCUACCCGUAAACUdT 333 CCUUUGCUACCCGUAAACUdTs 407 dT dT S 372 GUUUACGGGUAGCAAAGGUdT 334 GUUUACGGGUAGCAAAGGUdTs 408 dT dT AS 372 ACCUUUGCUACCCGUAAACdT 335 ACCUUUGCUACCCGUAAACdTs 409 dT dT S 373 UUUACGGGUAGCAAAGGUGdT 336 UUUACGGGUAGCAAAGGUGdTs 410 dT dT AS 373 CACCUUUGCUACCCGUAAAdT 337 CACCUUUGCUACCCGUAAAdTs 411 dT dT S 386 AAGGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCUdT 338 AAGGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCUdTs 412 dT dT AS 386 AGCCAUAAACUUUCACCUUdT 339 AGCCAUAAACUUUCACCUUdTs 413 dT dT S 387 AGGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCUAdT 340 AGGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCUAdTs 414 dT dT AS 387 UAGCCAUAAACUUUCACCUdT 341 UAGCCAUAAACUUUCACCUdTs 415 dT dT S 388 GGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCUAAdT 342 GGUGAAAGUUUAUGGCUAAdTs 416 dT dT AS 388 UUAGCCAUAAACUUUCACCdT 343 UUAGCCAUAAACUUUCACCdTs 417 dT dT S 393 AAGUUUAUGGCUAAACCUGdT 344 AAGUUUAUGGCUAAACCUGdTs 418 dT dT AS 393 CAGGUUUAGCCAUAAACUUdT 345 CAGGUUUAGCCAUAAACUUdTs 419 dT dT S 395 GUUUAUGGCUAAACCUGAGdT 346 GUUUAUGGCUAAACCUGAGdTs 420 dT dT AS 395 CUCAGGUUUAGCCAUAAACdT 347 CUCAGGUUUAGCCAUAAACdTs 421 dT dT S 434 UGGAUGGGCUAGCCCCUUAdT 348 UGGAUGGGCUAGCCCCUUAdTs 422 dT dT AS 434 UAAGGGGCUAGCCCAUCCAdT 349 UAAGGGGCUAGCCCAUCCAdTs 423 dT dT S 435 GGAUGGGCUAGCCCCUUACdT 350 GGAUGGGCUAGCCCCUUACdTs 424 dT dT AS 435 GUAAGGGGCUAGCCCAUCCdT 351 GUAAGGGGCUAGCCCAUCCdTs 425 dT dT S 438 UGGGCUAGCCCCUUACAGGdT 352 UGGGCUAGCCCCUUACAGGdTs 426 dT dT AS 438 CCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCCCAdT 353 CCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCCCAdTs 427 dT dT S 439 GGGCUAGCCCCUUACAGGCdT 354 GGGCUAGCCCCUUACAGGCdTs 428 dT dT AS 439 GCCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCCCdT 355 GCCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCCCdTs 429 dT dT S 440 GGCUAGCCCCUUACAGGCUdT 356 GGCUAGCCCCUUACAGGCUdTs 430 dT dT AS 440 AGCCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCCdT 357 AGCCUGUAAGGGGCUAGCCdTs 431 dT dT S 444 AGCCCCUUACAGGCUUAAAdT 358 AGCCCCUUACAGGCUUAAAdTs 432 dT dT AS 444 UUUAAGCCUGUAAGGGGCUdT 359 UUUAAGCCUGUAAGGGGCUdTs 433 dT dT S 446 CCCCUUACAGGCUUAAACUdT 360 CCCCUUACAGGCUUAAACUdTs 434 dT dT AS 446 AGUUUAAGCCUGUAAGGGGdT 361 AGUUUAAGCCUGUAAGGGGdTs 435 dT dT S 498 CUUACAGGAGCAGACUAGGdT 362 CUUACAGGAGCAGACUAGGdTs 436 dT dT AS 498 CCUAGUCUGCUCCUGUAAGdT 363 CCUAGUCUGCUCCUGUAAGdTs 437 dT dT S 508 CAGACUAGGCAUAUCUUUUdT 364 CAGACUAGGCAUAUCUUUUdTs 438 dT dT AS 508 AAAAGAUAUGCCUAGUCUGdT 365 AAAAGAUAUGCCUAGUCUGdTs 439 dT dT S 640 ACUGCCAAGUAUAACUAUGdT 366 ACUGCCAAGUAUAACUAUGdTs 440 dT dT AS 640 CAUAGUUAUACUUGGCAGUdT 367 CAUAGUUAUACUUGGCAGUdTs 441 dT dT S 763 UUGCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAAdT 368 UUGCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAAdTs 442 dT dT AS 763 UUGCCGACACAAUCUGCAAdT 369 UUGCCGACACAAUCUGCAAdTs 443 dT dT S 764 UGCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAAUdT 370 UGCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAAUdTs 444 dT dT AS 764 AUUGCCGACACAAUCUGCAdT 371 AUUGCCGACACAAUCUGCAdTs 445 dT dT S 765 GCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAAUGdT 372 GCAGAUUGUGUCGGCAAUGdTs 446 dT dT AS 765 CAUUGCCGACACAAUCUGCdT 373 CAUUGCCGACACAAUCUGCdTs 447 dT dT

TABLE 6 Sense and antisense strand sequences of mouse/rat Mylip/Idol dsRNAs position of 5′ Sequence with Sequence with Strand ID base on 3′deoxythimidine 3′deoxythimidine (S = sense; transcript overhang SEQ overhang SEQ AS = (NM_153789.3, (phosphodiester ID (phosphorothioate ID antisense) SEQ ID NO: 645) linkage) (5′ to 3′) NO: linkage) (5′ to 3′) NO: S 14 GAGCGGCGCGGCCGUGUAGdT 448 GAGCGGCGCGGCCGUGUAGdTs 514 dT dT AS 14 CUACACGGCCGCGCCGCUCdT 449 CUACACGGCCGCGCCGCUCdTs 515 dT dT S 26 CGUGUAGCUCCCGGGAACUdT 450 CGUGUAGCUCCCGGGAACUdTs 516 dT dT AS 26 AGUUCCCGGGAGCUACACGdT 451 AGUUCCCGGGAGCUACACGdTs 517 dT dT S 218 GCUGUGCUAUGUGACGAGGdT 452 GCUGUGCUAUGUGACGAGGdTs 518 dT dT AS 218 CCUCGUCACAUAGCACAGCdT 453 CCUCGUCACAUAGCACAGCdTs 519 dT dT S 220 UGUGCUAUGUGACGAGGCCdT 454 UGUGCUAUGUGACGAGGCCdTs 520 dT dT AS 220 GGCCUCGUCACAUAGCACAdT 455 GGCCUCGUCACAUAGCACAdTs 521 dT dT S 485 GCAGACAAGGCAUAUCUUUdT 456 GCAGACAAGGCAUAUCUUUdTs 522 dT dT AS 485 AAAGAUAUGCCUUGUCUGCdT 457 AAAGAUAUGCCUUGUCUGCdTs 523 dT dT S 764 GAACUACGGCAUAGAGUGGdT 458 GAACUACGGCAUAGAGUGGdTs 524 dT dT AS 764 CCACUCUAUGCCGUAGUUCdT 459 CCACUCUAUGCCGUAGUUCdTs 525 dT dT S 766 ACUACGGCAUAGAGUGGCAdT 460 ACUACGGCAUAGAGUGGCAdTs 526 dT dT AS 766 UGCCACUCUAUGCCGUAGUdT 461 UGCCACUCUAUGCCGUAGUdTs 527 dT dT S 857 GGACUUUAGCCCUAUUAACdT 462 GGACUUUAGCCCUAUUAACdTs 528 dT dT AS 857 GUUAAUAGGGCUAAAGUCCdT 463 GUUAAUAGGGCUAAAGUCCdTs 529 dT dT S 858 GACUUUAGCCCUAUUAACAdT 464 GACUUUAGCCCUAUUAACAdTs 530 dT dT AS 858 UGUUAAUAGGGCUAAAGUCdT 465 UGUUAAUAGGGCUAAAGUCdTs 531 dT dT S 867 CCUAUUAACAGGAUAGCUUdT 466 CCUAUUAACAGGAUAGCUUdTs 532 dT dT AS 867 AAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUAGGdT 467 AAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUAGGdTs 533 dT dT S 869 UAUUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUdT 468 UAUUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUdTs 534 dT dT AS 869 AUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUAdT 469 AUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUAdTs 535 dT dT S 870 AUUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUCdT 470 AUUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUCdTs 536 dT dT AS 870 GAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUdT 471 GAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAAUdTs 537 dT dT S 871 UUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUCCdT 472 UUAACAGGAUAGCUUAUCCdTs 538 dT dT AS 871 GGAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAAdT 473 GGAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUAAdTs 539 dT dT S 873 AACAGGAUAGCUUAUCCUGdT 474 AACAGGAUAGCUUAUCCUGdTs 540 dT dT AS 873 CAGGAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUdT 475 CAGGAUAAGCUAUCCUGUUdTs 541 dT dT S 875 CAGGAUAGCUUAUCCUGUGdT 476 CAGGAUAGCUUAUCCUGUGdTs 542 dT dT AS 875 CACAGGAUAAGCUAUCCUGdT 477 CACAGGAUAAGCUAUCCUGdTs 543 dT dT S 919 AGAAUGUCUACUUGACCGUdT 478 AGAAUGUCUACUUGACCGUdTs 544 dT dT AS 919 ACGGUCAAGUAGACAUUCUdT 479 ACGGUCAAGUAGACAUUCUdTs 545 dT dT S 92 UGUCUACUUGACCGUCACCdT 480 UGUCUACUUGACCGUCACCdTs 546 dT dT AS 923 GGUGACGGUCAAGUAGACAdT 481 GGUGACGGUCAAGUAGACAdTs 547 dT dT S 1815 UCAAGUAAAGGAGUAGAUAdT 482 UCAAGUAAAGGAGUAGAUAdTs 548 dT dT AS 1815 UAUCUACUCCUUUACUUGAdT 483 UAUCUACUCCUUUACUUGAdTs 549 dT dT S 1856 GGCAACAUGGCCCAACCGUdT 484 GGCAACAUGGCCCAACCGUdTs 550 dT dT AS 1856 ACGGUUGGGCCAUGUUGCCdT 485 ACGGUUGGGCCAUGUUGCCdTs 551 dT dT S 1859 AACAUGGCCCAACCGUGGGdT 486 AACAUGGCCCAACCGUGGGdTs 552 dT dT AS 1859 CCCACGGUUGGGCCAUGUUdT 487 CCCACGGUUGGGCCAUGUUdTs 553 dT dT S 1861 CAUGGCCCAACCGUGGGCAdT 488 CAUGGCCCAACCGUGGGCAdTs 554 dT dT AS 1861 UGCCCACGGUUGGGCCAUGdT 489 UGCCCACGGUUGGGCCAUGdTs 555 dT dT S 1968 UUGUAUGGUCAUGGAGCGCdT 490 UUGUAUGGUCAUGGAGCGCdTs 556 dT dT AS 1968 GCGCUCCAUGACCAUACAAdT 491 GCGCUCCAUGACCAUACAAdTs 557 dT dT S 1969 UGUAUGGUCAUGGAGCGCUdT 492 UGUAUGGUCAUGGAGCGCUdTs 558 dT dT AS 1969 AGCGCUCCAUGACCAUACAdT 493 AGCGCUCCAUGACCAUACAdTs 559 dT dT S 2512 UCUACAGCCUUAUAGGUUUdT 494 UCUACAGCCUUAUAGGUUUdTs 560 dT dT AS 2512 AAACCUAUAAGGCUGUAGAdT 495 AAACCUAUAAGGCUGUAGAdTs 561 dT dT S 2695 GAAGCUAGUGAGCUAGGGGdT 496 GAAGCUAGUGAGCUAGGGGdTs 562 dT dT AS 2695 CCCCUAGCUCACUAGCUUCdT 497 CCCCUAGCUCACUAGCUUCdTs 563 dT dT S 2744 CCUCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUdT 498 CCUCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUdTs 564 dT dT AS 2744 AGUAUUGCACCCGAUGAGGdT 499 AGUAUUGCACCCGAUGAGGdTs 565 dT dT S 2745 CUCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUAdT 500 CUCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUAdTs 566 dT dT AS 2745 UAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGAGdT 501 UAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGAGdTs 567 dT dT S 2746 UCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGdT 502 UCAUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGdTs 568 dT dT AS 2746 CUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGAdT 503 CUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGAdTs 569 dT dT S 2747 CAUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCdT 504 CAUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCdTs 570 dT dT AS 2747 GCUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGdT 505 GCUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUGdTs 571 dT dT S 2748 AUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCUdT 506 AUCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCUdTs 572 dT dT AS 2748 AGCUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUdT 507 AGCUAGUAUUGCACCCGAUdTs 573 dT dT S 2749 UCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCUAdT 508 UCGGGUGCAAUACUAGCUAdTs 574 dT dT AS 2749 UAGCUAGUAUUGCACCCGAdT 509 UAGCUAGUAUUGCACCCGAdTs 575 dT dT S 2918 AUUAGCAUAUAAGCCUUUAdT 510 AUUAGCAUAUAAGCCUUUAdTs 576 dT dT AS 2918 UAAAGGCUUAUAUGCUAAUdT 511 UAAAGGCUUAUAUGCUAAUdTs 577 dT dT S 2919 UUAGCAUAUAAGCCUUUAUdT 512 UUAGCAUAUAAGCCUUUAUdTs 578 dT dT AS 2919 AUAAAGGCUUAUAUGCUAAdT 513 AUAAAGGCUUAUAUGCUAAdTs 579 dT dT

TABLE 7 Chemically modified sense and antisense strand sequences of Mylip/Idol dsRNAs Position of 5′ Strand ID base on (S = sense; transcript AS = (NM_001098791.1, antisense) SEQ ID NO: 1299) Sequence (5′ to 3′) SEQ ID NO: S GAGcGGcGcGGccGuGuAGdTsdT 580 AS CuAcACGGCCGCGCCGCUCdTsdT 581 S cGuGuAGcucccGGGAAcudTsdT 582 AS AGUUCCCGGGAGCuAcACGdTsdT 583 S GcuGuGcuAuGuGAcGAGGdTsdT 584 AS CCUCGUcAcAuAGcAcAGCdTsdT 585 S uGuGcuAuGuGAcGAGGccdTsdT 586 AS GGCCUCGUcAcAuAGcAcAdTsdT 587 S GcAGAcAAGGcAuAucuuudTsdT 588 AS AAAGAuAUGCCUUGUCUGCdTsdT 589 S GAAcuAcGGcAuAGAGuGGdTsdT 590 AS CcACUCuAUGCCGuAGUUCdTsdT 591 S AcuAcGGcAuAGAGuGGcAdTsdT 592 AS UGCcACUCuAUGCCGuAGUdTsdT 593 S GGAcuuuAGcccuAuuAAcdTsdT 594 AS GUuAAuAGGGCuAAAGUCCdTsdT 595 S GAcuuuAGcccuAuuAAcAdTsdT 596 AS UGUuAAuAGGGCuAAAGUCdTsdT 597 S ccuAuuAAcAGGAuAGcuudTsdT 598 AS AAGCuAUCCUGUuAAuAGGdTsdT 599 S uAuuAAcAGGAuAGcuuAudTsdT 600 AS AuAAGCuAUCCUGUuAAuAdTsdT 601 S AuuAAcAGGAuAGcuuAucdTsdT 602 AS GAuAAGCuAUCCUGUuAAUdTsdT 603 S uuAAcAGGAuAGcuuAuccdTsdT 604 AS GGAuAAGCuAUCCUGUuAAdTsdT 605 S cAGGAuAGcuuAuccuGuGdTsdT 606 AS cAcAGGAuAAGCuAUCCUGdTsdT 607 S AGAAuGucuAcuuGAccGudTsdT 608 AS ACGGUcAAGuAGAcAUUCUdTsdT 609 S uGucuAcuuGAccGucAccdTsdT 610 AS GGUGACGGUcAAGuAGAcAdTsdT 611 S ucAAGuAAAGGAGuAGAuAdTsdT 612 AS uAUCuACUCCUUuACUUGAdTsdT 613 S GGcAAcAuGGcccAAccGudTsdT 614 AS ACGGUUGGGCcAUGUUGCCdTsdT 615 S AAcAuGGcccAAccGuGGGdTsdT 616 AS CCcACGGUUGGGCcAUGUUdTsdT 617 S cAuGGcccAAccGuGGGcAdTsdT 618 AS UGCCcACGGUUGGGCcAUGdTsdT 619 S uuGuAuGGucAuGGAGcGcdTsdT 620 AS GCGCUCcAUGACcAuAcAAdTsdT 621 S uGuAuGGucAuGGAGcGcudTsdT 622 AS AGCGCUCcAUGACcAuAcAdTsdT 623 S ucuAcAGccuuAuAGGuuudTsdT 624 AS AAACCuAuAAGGCUGuAGAdTsdT 625 S GAAGcuAGuGAGcuAGGGGdTsdT 626 AS CCCCuAGCUcACuAGCUUCdTsdT 627 S ccucAucGGGuGcAAuAcudTsdT 628 AS AGuAUUGcACCCGAUGAGGdTsdT 629 S cucAucGGGuGcAAuAcuAdTsdT 630 AS uAGuAUUGcACCCGAUGAGdTsdT 631 S ucAucGGGuGcAAuAcuAGdTsdT 632 AS CuAGuAUUGcACCCGAUGAdTsdT 633 S cAucGGGuGcAAuAcuAGcdTsdT 634 AS GCuAGuAUUGcACCCGAUGdTsdT 635 S AucGGGuGcAAuAcuAGcudTsdT 636 AS AGCuAGuAUUGcACCCGAUdTsdT 637 S ucGGGuGcAAuAcuAGcuAdTsdT 638 AS uAGCuAGuAUUGcACCCGAdTsdT 639 S AuuAGcAuAuAAGccuuuAdTsdT 640 AS uAAAGGCUuAuAUGCuAAUdTsdT 641 S AAcAGGAuAGcuuAuccuGdTsdT 642 AS cAGGAuAAGCuAUCCUGUUdTsdT 643

Synthesis of Mylip/Idol Sequences

Mylip/Idol iRNA sequences were synthesized on a MerMade 192 synthesizer at 1 μmol scale.

For all the sequences in Table 5, ‘endolight’ chemistry was applied as detailed below.

-   -   All pyrimidines (cytosine and uridine) in the sense strand         contained 2′-O-Methyl bases (2′ O-Methyl C and 2′-O-Methyl U)     -   In the antisense strand, pyrimidines adjacent to (towards 5′         position) ribo A nucleoside were replaced with their         corresponding 2-O-Methyl nucleosides     -   A two base dTsdT extension at 3′ end of both sense and anti         sense sequences was introduced     -   The sequence file was converted to a text file to make it         compatible for loading in the MerMade 192 synthesis software

Synthesis, Cleavage and Deprotection

The synthesis of Mylip/Idol sequences used solid supported oligonucleotide synthesis using phosphoramidite chemistry.

The synthesis of the above sequences was performed at 1 μm scale in 96 well plates. The amidite solutions were prepared at 0.1M concentration and ethyl thio tetrazole (0.6M in Acetonitrile) was used as activator.

The synthesized sequences were cleaved and deprotected in 96 well plates, using methylamine in the first step and fluoride reagent in the second step. The crude sequences were precipitated using acetone: ethanol (80:20) mix and the pellets were re-suspended in 0.02M sodium acetate buffer. Samples from each sequence were analyzed by LC-MS to confirm the identity, UV for quantification, and a selected set of samples were also analyzed by IEX chromatography to determine purity.

Purification and Desalting

All sequences were purified on AKTA explorer purification system using Source 15Q column. Sample injection and collection was performed in 96 well (1.8 mL-deep well) plates. A single peak corresponding to the full length sequence was collected in the eluent. The purified sequences were desalted on a Sephadex G25 column using AKTA purifier. The desalted Mylip/Idol sequences were analyzed for concentration (by UV measurement at A260) and purity (by ion exchange HPLC). The single strands were then submitted for annealing.

Other embodiments are in the claims. 

1. A double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) for inhibiting expression of Mylip/Idol, wherein said dsRNA comprises a sense strand and an antisense strand, wherein the sense strand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and the antisense strand comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from the corresponding antisense nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:
 21. 2. A double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) for inhibiting expression of Mylip/Idol, wherein said dsRNA comprises a sense strand and an antisense strand, the antisense strand comprising a region of complementarity to a Mylip/Idol transcript which comprises at least 15 contiguous nucleotides differing by no more than 3 nucleotides from one of the antisense sequences listed in Tables 3, 4, 5 and
 6. 3. The dsRNA of claim 1 or 2, wherein said dsRNA comprises at least one modified nucleotide.
 4. The dsRNA of claim 3, wherein at least one of said modified nucleotides is chosen from the group consisting of: a 2′-O-methyl modified nucleotide, a nucleotide comprising a 5′-phosphorothioate group, and a terminal nucleotide linked to a cholesteryl derivative or dodecanoic acid bisdecylamide group.
 5. The dsRNA of claim 3, wherein said modified nucleotide is chosen from the group consisting of: a 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro modified nucleotide, a 2′-deoxy-modified nucleotide, a locked nucleotide, an abasic nucleotide, 2′-amino-modified nucleotide, 2′-alkyl-modified nucleotide, morpholino nucleotide, a phosphoramidate, and a non-natural base comprising nucleotide.
 6. The dsRNA of claim 2, wherein the region of complementarity is at least 17 nucleotides in length.
 7. The dsRNA of claim 2, wherein the region of complementarity is between 19 and 21 nucleotides in length.
 8. The dsRNA of claim 7, wherein the region of complementarity is 19 nucleotides in length.
 9. The dsRNA of claim 1 or 2, wherein each strand is no more than 30 nucleotides in length.
 10. The dsRNA of claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one strand comprises a 3′ overhang of at least 1 nucleotide.
 11. The dsRNA of claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one strand comprises a 3′ overhang of at least 2 nucleotides.
 12. The dsRNA of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a ligand.
 13. The dsRNA of claim 12, wherein the ligand is conjugated to the 3′ end of the sense strand of the dsRNA.
 14. The dsRNA of claim 2, wherein the region of complementarity consists of one of the antisense sequences of Tables 3, 4, 5, or
 6. 15. The dsRNA of claim 2, wherein the sense strand consists of SEQ ID NO: 20 and the antisense strand consists of SEQ ID NO:
 21. 16. The dsRNA of claim 1 or 2, wherein the dsRNA comprises a sense strand consisting of a sense strand sequence selected from Tables 3, 4, 5 and 6, and an antisense strand consisting of an antisense sequence selected from Tables 3, 4, 5 and
 6. 17. A cell containing the dsRNA of claim 1 or
 2. 18. A pharmaceutical composition for inhibiting expression of a Mylip/Idol gene comprising the dsRNA of claim 1 or
 2. 19. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 18, further comprising a lipid formulation.
 20. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 19, wherein the lipid formulation is a SNALP, or XTC formulation
 21. A method of inhibiting Mylip/Idol expression in a cell, the method comprising: (a) introducing into the cell the dsRNA of claim 1 or 2; and (b) maintaining the cell produced in step (a) for a time sufficient to obtain degradation of the mRNA transcript of a Mylip/Idol gene, thereby inhibiting expression of the Mylip/Idol gene in the cell.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the Mylip/Idol expression is inhibited by at least 30%.
 23. A method of treating a disorder mediated by Mylip/Idol expression comprising administering to a human in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of the dsRNA of claim 1 or 2 or a pharmaceutical composition of claims 18-20.
 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the human has a lipid disorder.
 25. The method of claim 23, wherein the human has a disorder associated with cholesterol metabolism.
 26. The method of claim 23, wherein the human has diabetes or atherosclerosis.
 27. The method of claim 25, wherein the administration of the dsRNA to the subject causes a decrease in Low Density Lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc) in the serum of the subject by at least 10%.
 28. The method of claim 23, wherein the dsRNA is administered at a concentration of 0.01 mg/kg-5 mg/kg bodyweight of the subject.
 29. A vector encoding at least one strand of a dsRNA, wherein said dsRNA comprises a region of complementarity to at least a part of an mRNA encoding Mylip/Idol, wherein said dsRNA is 30 base pairs or less in length, and wherein said dsRNA targets said mRNA for cleavage.
 30. The vector of claim 29, wherein the region of complementarity is at least 15 nucleotides in length.
 31. The vector of claim 29, wherein the region of complementarity is 19 to 21 nucleotides in length.
 32. A cell comprising the vector of claim
 29. 